Đurić in Yerevan on a policy of principles and the protection of Serbia’s interests

Minister Đurić emphasized that the Serbian delegation, at a panel on European integration together with representatives of Armenia and the region, presented the essence of Serbia’s policy as a combination of consistency with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the necessary adaptability in a rapidly changing world—from technological transformations such as the development of social networks and artificial intelligence to broader geopolitical realignments of power. He stressed that, under such circumstances, Serbia remains firmly committed to safeguarding its interests, while also contributing actively to international processes.

Đurić also referred to a question raised at the panel regarding Serbia’s participation in commemorations marking the anniversary of victory in the Second World War.

“Serbia is proud of its anti-fascist struggle; we are a nation that made sacrifices numbering in the millions in order to defeat the Nazi occupier and fascism in Europe,” Đurić underlined.

He added that Serbia respectfully preserves the memory of that struggle and that its representatives take part in commemorations worldwide, emphasizing that the anti-fascist legacy is an enduring value on which the state relies.

The head of Serbian diplomacy also pointed to the importance of the consistent respect for the principle of territorial integrity, stressing that Serbia does not accept double standards in international relations.

“Why should the territorial integrity of Serbia be of lesser value than the territorial integrity of any other country,” Đurić stated. He noted that President Aleksandar Vučić regularly raises this issue at international fora, and that he himself, within his competences as Minister of Foreign Affairs, does the same, assessing that this is a highly significant issue, also shared by Prime Minister Macut.

He added that Serbia remains committed to protecting its sovereignty, while at the same time advocating dialogue and the resolution of disputes.

Speaking about Serbia’s position in the European context, Đurić emphasized that Serbia is a country that, over the past quarter-century, has demonstrated strong commitment to the European path, has significantly enhanced its economic capacities, infrastructure, and regional connectivity, and stands ready to contribute on an equal footing to the European project, conveying that Serbia extends a hand of cooperation to all, while expecting mutual respect.

Đurić stated that he would also meet with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, highlighting that this country is an important partner of Serbia, particularly regarding support on the issue of territorial integrity, regardless of the presence of representatives of the Provisional Institutions of Self-Government in Pristina led by Albin Kurti. He recalled the existence of a free trade agreement with the Eurasian economic bloc since 2021, as well as the fact that Serbia has had an embassy in Yerevan for six years, which confirms its intention to develop comprehensive relations.

Minister Đurić emphasized that the talks with Armenian officials aim to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation, as well as to further strengthen the partnership in the spirit of friendship and shared interests.