Djuric briefs Pierce on institutional pressure faced by the Serbian population in Kosovo

Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Marko Djuric, met on the margins of the Bled Strategic Forum with the United Kingdom’s Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Dame Karen Pierce, whom he informed about the destabilization of the situation in Kosovo and the institutional pressures faced daily by the Serbian population.

Recalling their previous meeting in Dayton in May this year, Minister Djuric expressed his satisfaction at the opportunity to once again discuss current issues with the Special Envoy.

Minister Djuric underlined that regular political dialogue at the high and highest levels is of great importance for advancing all areas of cooperation of mutual interest, and that it has contributed to the long tradition and history of ties between the two countries.

The Serbian Foreign Minister reiterated that Serbia remains firmly committed to cooperation, open communication, and respect for agreements, principles upon which it bases its foreign policy.

Speaking about regional cooperation, Minister Djuric emphasized that Serbia is dedicated to its enhancement, as it contributes to peace, stability, and prosperity across the whole of Europe.

With regard to Kosovo, the Minister provided a detailed account of the destabilization of the situation and the institutional pressures faced daily by the Serbian community in the province.

Minister Djuric expressed gratitude for the support that the United Kingdom provides to the Western Balkans’ European integration process, stressing that regional initiatives serve as catalysts for this process, but can never substitute for full membership in the European Union.

The interlocutors also discussed the forthcoming Berlin Process Summit and the preparatory meeting of Foreign Ministers to be held in Belfast in October.

Minister Djuric reaffirmed that Serbia attaches particular importance to this intergovernmental initiative, which through concrete projects and measures supports Serbia’s EU integration, strengthens regional cooperation, encourages development, and advances the process of reconciliation in the region.