Djuric in Munich: I called on the international community to take measures to prevent the violation of the rights of Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija

Minister of Foreign Affairs Marko Djuric, who is part of the Serbian delegation at the Munich Security Conference, stated that the gathering has been marked by pronounced polarization, making it all the more important that Serbia—traditionally advocating a balanced position—is viewed as part of the solution. He emphasized that he had requested decisive measures from representatives of the international community to prevent the undermining of the rights of Serbs in Kosovo.

Djuric conveyed that he had spoken with the Secretary General of the OSCE, drawing attention to what he described as an urgent situation concerning Serbian educational and healthcare institutions in Kosovo, and calling for action by the organization as well as broader international measures to safeguard the rights of the Serbian community.

“We must not allow what constitutes the backbone of the Serbian people’s survival—but also of the multiethnic character of Kosovo and Metohija—to be trampled in pursuit of the nationalist agenda of a regime that has gained momentum because it has clearly been allowed excessive leeway to act outside not only political, but basic human standards of the 21st century,” Djuric warned.

The Minister stressed that no one’s right to hold a political position may take precedence over the right of others to receive education in their own language and to be treated by a physician of their choice.

Referring to the conference more broadly, he observed that polarization in Munich appears more pronounced than it was in Davos.

“We are witnessing tectonic shifts within the Euro-Atlantic community. In such circumstances, it is particularly important that Serbia is seen here as part of the solution rather than part of the problem—as an actor actively contributing to the stabilization of the Balkans and to shifting the focus toward enhancing regional cooperation, economic development, and opening the prospect for our entire region to jointly become part of the European Union, with all the rights and obligations that entails,” Djuric said.

He noted that the meeting between President of Serbia Aleksandar Vucic and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, which he also attended, was of great significance for Serbia.

“I am very satisfied with the meetings President Vucic and our delegation have had with non-European actors. Among these, I would particularly highlight the meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. I can say that one of Serbia’s comparative advantages is the respect and trust it enjoys in what is the largest and fastest-growing economy of the Far East—indeed, an economy that in many respects, in scientific, technological, and overall social development, is increasingly matching traditional Western leaders,” the Serbian Foreign Minister stated.

Djuric emphasized that Serbia continues to pursue a traditionally balanced foreign policy while strengthening ties with the host country of the conference, noting that the delegation is scheduled for important meetings with German officials and that President Vucic will meet several European officials later this evening.

Speaking about his meeting with the Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Djuric expressed the expectation that relations between Serbia and Lithuania will gain new momentum in the coming period.

“It is important for us to deepen understanding between Baltic and Balkan countries, because as global developments accelerate, cohesion, unity, and solidarity on the European continent become strategically significant. Moreover, just as Serbia’s economy has doubled over the past decade, Lithuania’s economy has been steadily growing. It is based on modern technologies, and I believe we have much to offer one another,” the Minister said.

He added that the Serbian delegation faces important meetings tomorrow, including his own meeting with the Minister of External Affairs of India. He also announced meetings with several U.S. senators, congressmen, and other officials, as well as with U.S. senior official for Europe Brendan Hanrahan.

Djuric expressed the expectation that discussions with Hanrahan will confirm the shared intention to elevate Serbia–United States relations to the level of a strategic partnership.

“If we succeed in achieving this in the coming months, I truly believe it will constitute a legacy for future generations, because our effort to advance relations with this key power of Western civilization has far-reaching and positive consequences for all our state and national interests—from the economy to Kosovo and Metohija,” Djuric concluded.

He added that he also met with Zeljka Cvijanovic, emphasizing that her presence, as well as that of President Vucic in Munich, is important to ensure that the Serbian voice is heard at all relevant international forums.