Đurić Participates in the “Yerevan Dialogue 2026”

He stressed that Serbia is in a specific position and is striving to safeguard its territorial integrity, which was violated by the unilateral declaration of independence of the so-called Kosovo in 2008. As he noted, Serbia’s position on this issue is supported by both Ukraine and the Russian Federation, as well as by five member states of the European Union.

“I do not see why Serbia’s territorial integrity should be considered any less important than that of any other European country. This is something that the citizens of Serbia find difficult to understand. Nevertheless, in all other respects – in the economy, foreign policy, and through a broad network of friendships and partnerships – Serbia represents significant added value for Europe in our region,” Đurić said during the panel entitled “European Union Enlargement and European Integration: Unity, Urgency and Fragmentation in a Changing Geopolitical Environment.”

Speaking about relations between Serbia and the European Union, Đurić assessed that Serbia has contributed more to Europe’s security than many other countries in the region that are formally fully aligned with the EU. As an example, he pointed out that Serbia has, in practice, aligned itself with key elements of European foreign policy regarding Ukraine, including through the provision of unprecedented humanitarian assistance.

He added that states must remain adaptable, as it is essential to pursue their own national interests while respecting the principles of international public law.

Responding to a question on whether Serbia would send representatives to Moscow for the commemoration of 9 May, Đurić recalled that Serbia takes pride in its contribution to the anti-fascist struggle during the Second World War and also values the contribution of the Red Army to the liberation of Belgrade.

“Yes, we send representatives to various places where important historical anniversaries are commemorated. A few years ago, our President attended that parade together with, for example, the Prime Minister of Israel and several European leaders. I am confident that we will continue to be appropriately represented at events marking the victory over fascism, because those who believe that such evil cannot reappear in the 21st century have not learned much from history. Technology advances, but human nature remains much the same,” Đurić concluded.