Đurić: The Summit in Taormina placed special emphasis on the Western Balkans and its EU path

Following the meeting, Minister Đurić stated that this was far from a routine gathering of foreign ministers, describing it instead as a direct and substantive discussion on the challenges currently facing Europe, with a particular focus on the Western Balkans and the accession of the region’s countries to the EU.

“I conveyed the position that the accession of Western Balkan states to the European Union is, both for the region and for the EU itself, a kind of Shakespearean dilemma — almost a matter of ‘to be or not to be’ — in terms of both security and economic development, considering the vast growth potential of our region. I sent a clear and unequivocal message that Serbia is ready to go against the current, if necessary, in building bridges of cooperation among the states and peoples of the region,” Đurić emphasized.

He also noted that there were attempts — particularly from the representative of Priština — to portray Serbia in a negative light through the invocation of a historically charged context.

“We responded to this in a dignified manner, conveying a clear message that no one will be convinced of the necessity of EU enlargement to the Balkans if we resort to mutual attacks, insults, and belittlement. We, too, could engage in such rhetoric — and perhaps even more effectively — but we choose a different path. We choose to demonstrate, through our conduct, the values we are committed to,” the Serbian Foreign Minister stated.

Đurić underlined that Serbia, as a central country on the Balkan Peninsula and accounting for 52 percent of the region’s economy, is an indispensable link and must play a vital role in this part of Europe.

He also noted that on the margins of the summit, he held a number of productive and high-quality bilateral meetings, particularly with colleagues from the region.

Highlighting his meeting with the Maltese Foreign Minister, Đurić emphasized its importance, given Malta's upcoming presidency of the Council of Europe this autumn. He stressed that it is of crucial importance for Serbia that the issue of the position and suffering of the Serbian people in Kosovo and Metohija be taken into account when determining the Council of Europe’s next steps.

Finally, Minister Đurić expressed his gratitude to the Italian hosts for organizing the summit and for their sincere and friendly support of Serbia. He affirmed that Serbia will continue to advocate for the strengthening of its international position wherever and whenever possible.