Statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

This decision represents a grave violation of the fundamental principles of international law and a blatant breach of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244, which unequivocally reaffirms the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Serbia over its province of Kosovo and Metohija. The move is all the more troubling as it comes in the year when the international community marks eight decades since the adoption of the Charter of the United Nations — the cornerstone of the modern international order.

The decision by Damascus undermines efforts aimed at preserving regional stability and jeopardizes the constructive engagement within the Dialogue process on the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Priština. It is particularly disappointing that this act has disrupted the decades-long tradition of cooperation between Serbia and Syria, built within the framework of the Non-Aligned Movement and grounded in mutual respect.

The Republic of Serbia has undertaken all necessary diplomatic measures in response to this unacceptable act. In this regard and considering the role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the mentioned development, a decision has been made to recall the Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia from Riyadh for consultations. The Ambassador will, until further notice, remain in Belgrade.

The Ministry recalls that in the past eight years, twenty-nine countries worldwide have withdrawn or suspended their recognition of the unilaterally declared independence of “Kosovo”, and that the majority of United Nations member states continue to stand by Serbia and in defense of the fundamental principles of international law.