Đurić: Serbia deserves an equal place in the European Union

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Marko Đurić, stated at the conclusion of his visit to Brussels and participation in the informal dinner on the Western Balkans that Serbia had a full opportunity to present all of its economic and reform potentials, as well as everything additionally implemented over the past two or three months to accelerate the process of European reforms and strengthen the overall capacities of society.

Minister Đurić assessed that this evening’s meeting took place in a constructive and moderately optimistic atmosphere, noting that, due to difficult global circumstances, there is now a somewhat greater sense of momentum for the enlargement of the European Union, which also implies strengthening the Union as a project. He underlined that this provides Serbia with a favourable opportunity to advance its objectives in this area.

“We wished to demonstrate everything that Serbia can realistically contribute to the European community,” Đurić said. He added that Serbia deserves an equal, fully-fledged place and equal treatment alongside the major European states.

Đurić noted that various representatives of participating countries raised significant geopolitical issues, among which the situation in Ukraine was one of the most prominent. He also stated that Member States showed a growing awareness of the need for Europe to reinforce its cohesion and unity and to accelerate the integration of the countries of the region into the European framework.

According to him, particular emphasis was placed on the importance of strengthening infrastructure, connectivity, and good-neighbourly cooperation in the region, as well as on creating a perspective that would ensure not only political stability but also a more long-term future for younger generations, encouraging them to remain in the region.