America Day in Belgrade – Djuric: Historical connection; Hill: We will improve relations

A gathering marking America Day in Belgrade is taking place in the Serbian National Assembly.

At a special "Hard Talks" panel at the opening of the event, Serbian Ambassador to the United States Marko Djuric and U.S. Ambassador to Serbia Christopher Hill spoke briefly. The opening address was delivered by Major General John Harris, Commander of the Ohio National Guard.

Ambassador Djuric noted that the U.S.-Serbia relations were characterized by historical ties. He pointed out the strong economic and trade cooperation between the two countries, emphasizing that there was no reason to expect anything other than the further strengthening of relations.

In recent years, Serbia has made progress in the economic, political, and international cooperation fields, as Djuric stated. He added that Serbia was firmly committed to making the U.S. one of its main strategic partners in the future.

The Serbian Ambassador highlighted that General Harris's visit testifies to the good relations and cooperation between Serbia and the U.S. in the area of security forces.

Ambassador Christopher Hill mentioned that Serbia and the U.S. had an opportunity to improve their relations and should work on it. He added that relations between Serbia and the U.S. were respected and not dependent on what happened in other countries.

"We should continue to cooperate, especially in the field of economic collaboration," Hill stated.

He reminded the audience that the cooperation between the two countries had lasted for 142 years and emphasized that he expected it to continue successfully for the "next 142 years" while working on enhancing the relationship between the two countries.

Major General John Harris pointed out that relentless efforts were being made to strengthen mutual relations between Serbia and the U.S. He stated that the current generations faced significant challenges and responsibilities, adding that he was honored to be among people who are ready to take responsibility, including the President of the U.S., the President of Serbia, ambassadors, and the Chief of the General Staff of the Serbian Army, General Milan Mojsilovic, whom he considered a friend.

He added that it was up to everyone to take responsibility, ensure peace, and enable every citizen to fulfill their full potential.

Awards were presented at the event to individuals for their contributions to improving relations between Serbia and the United States, including Marko Djuric, Robert Benjamin, Marija Milosevic, Richard Grenell, Mihajlo Djelic, Adam Sofronjijevic, and Jovanka Visekruna Jankovic.

Grenell, in a video message aired at the event, expressed his love for coming to Serbia and called for strengthening U.S.-Serbia relations.

Serbia's Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic also addressed the gathering.

The conference covers topics such as Serbian-American economic ties, energy, and education. The conference organizers are the Serbian-American Friendship Congress and the magazine "Diplomacy and Commerce."