Đurić: Serbia Actively Contributes to the Stabilization of the Balkans
Minister Đurić assessed that the atmosphere in Munich has been marked by stronger polarization than was the case at the gathering in Davos, and that tectonic shifts are taking place within the Euro-Atlantic community. In such circumstances, he emphasized, it is particularly significant that Serbia is recognized as part of the solution rather than part of the problem, and as a country that places emphasis on regional cooperation, economic development, and the European perspective of the entire region.
He expressed satisfaction with the discussions held by President of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić and the Serbian delegation with numerous international officials, highlighting in particular the meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Wang Yi. Đurić underlined that Serbia enjoys the respect and trust of China, one of the fastest-growing global economies and a country increasingly competing with traditional Western leaders in scientific, technological, and social development.
Referring to his meetings on the margins of the conference, the Minister noted that he met with the Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), to whom he pointed out what he described as the urgent situation concerning attempts by the authorities in Pristina to undermine the rights of the Serbian people in the fields of education and healthcare. He called for more decisive engagement by the OSCE Mission and the broader international community in protecting the fundamental rights of Serbs in Serbia’s southern province.
“No one’s right to hold a political position on status issues may take precedence over the right of an individual to receive education in their own language, to be treated by their chosen physician, and to have previously reached agreements respected,” Đurić stressed.
The Minister added that he held a highly substantive discussion with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, expressing confidence that relations between the two countries will gain new momentum, particularly in the areas of economic cooperation and advanced technologies, given the dynamic growth of both economies.
He announced that Serbia faces important discussions tomorrow, including a meeting with the Minister of External Affairs of India, as well as with several U.S. senators and members of Congress. He particularly emphasized the importance of talks with U.S. senior official for Europe Brendan Hanrahan, expressing the expectation that mutual intent will be confirmed to elevate Serbia–United States relations to the level of a strategic partnership.
Đurić added that President Aleksandar Vučić and the Serb member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Željka Cvijanović, are also present in Munich, underscoring the importance of ensuring that the Serbian voice is heard at all relevant international forums.