Djuric: At Christmas, I think almost only of Kosovo and Metohija, I miss the Serbs and liturgies in monasteries

Albin Kurti has revived the worst chauvinistic and totalitarian practices, and today Kosovo is a prison for both Serbs and Albanians, but the Serbs are "the number one target," Serbia's Foreign Minister Marko Djuric said for Pink. He emphasizes that Serbia is committed to dialogue as the path to normalizing relations with Pristina, and that the priority of the ministry he leads remains Kosovo, namely the protection of Serbia's territorial integrity in the international political and legal arena.

"For Christmas, I think almost only about Kosovo and Metohija traditionally... I miss the holiday liturgies in Gracanica, Draganca, Decani... and our people, who are far more numerous than is generally believed and more than on all the population censuses. The Serbian heart still beats in Old Serbia," Djuric said in a Christmas interview for Pink.

He wishes all the best to Albanians as well, whom, as he says, Kurti is leading further away from a prosperous, organized, and European future.

"This gentleman from Pristina, with earlier family roots from Ulcinj, has revived the worst chauvinistic and totalitarian practices. That is why Kosovo is today a prison for both Serbs and Albanians. Of course, the Serbs are the number one target. Kurti's goal is for them not to exist anymore. He has committed horrendous crimes to achieve that goal. In any European democratic country, he would be held accountable for such systematic and ethnically motivated persecution, rule by repression, political and economic subjugation," Djuric said.

He pointed out that Serbia is consistently committed to dialogue as a path to normalizing relations with Pristina but also emphasized that mutual effort is necessary for constructive engagement.

"Our diplomacy continues to advocate for peaceful solutions and the respect of international agreements. The formation of the Community of Serbian Municipalities (CSM) remains a key step in ensuring the security and stability of all communities in the region," the minister stressed.

When asked about Serbia's main diplomatic priorities for 2025, he responded that the goal is to continue the reform process that will prepare the country for full membership in the European Union, which involves changes in legislation, institutional reforms, societal adjustments, as well as intense diplomatic efforts.

"We want to accelerate EU negotiations, but also to continue strengthening relations with other key international actors, without neglecting relations with countries of the Global South. Our multivector policy has brought significant results, and there is no reason to change the strategy that enables Serbia to develop diverse partnerships and promote stability," Djuric said.

He emphasized that one of the key priorities is also Kosovo – more precisely, the protection of Serbia's territorial integrity in the international political and legal arena.

He added that Serbia's foreign policy is based on principles of respect for international law, peaceful dispute resolution, and constructive cooperation.

"By adhering to these values, Serbia has strengthened relations with countries around the world that share similar priorities. The key word of our foreign policy is consistency. Maintaining traditional partnerships and a strong commitment to European integration demonstrates consistency and pragmatism. Our approach ensures that international engagements support the country's development and long-term stability," Djuric said.

According to him, Serbia is dedicated to contributing to solving global issues, not only proportionally to its size but much more than that.

He pointed out that Serbia is globally recognized as one of the "pillars" of the UN Charter and international law.

"Our diplomatic efforts are also focused on preserving peace through UN and EU peace missions in which hundreds of our soldiers, policemen, and doctors serve... but also on important issues like climate change, renewable energy, and food security. Serbia strives to make a significant contribution to international efforts, showing solidarity and support to those in need. These steps confirm our commitment to global progress and cooperation," Minister Djuric said.
He added that the network of contacts, friendships, and trust-based relations built by President Aleksandar Vucic with a number of world leaders represents a great resource for Serbia in the international arena and brings concrete and significant benefits to society.

Asked how the Ministry of Foreign Affairs plans to respond to potential changes in international relations in 2025, he replied that Serbia has adopted a proactive approach in diplomacy, especially in relations with key international actors, and is ready for changes in the geopolitical landscape.

"We continue to prioritize strategic forecasts. Through open communication and readiness, Serbia can adapt to new circumstances and protect its national interests," Djuric added.