The Balkan country of Montenegro has separated from Serbia and received recognition as the worlds newest independent state from the European Union and the former Yugoslav republics of Croatia and Macedonia.

A statement issued on behalf of foreign ministers said: "The European Union and its member states have decided that they will develop further their relations with the Republic of Montenegro as a sovereign, independent state.
"Member states will take the subsequent measures implementing this decision nationally in accordance with international law and practice," they added.