Djuric points out Pristina's unilateral moves to Tajani: Alarming violation of Serbs' rights in Kosovo

Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djuric met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, Antonio Tajani, who is visiting Belgrade for the Serbia–Italy Business Forum. Djuric informed Tajani about the unilateral moves of the Pristina authorities, which have led to a concerning and alarming violation of the fundamental human rights of Serbs in Serbia’s southern province. He also emphasized that Serbia highly values Italy’s presence within KFOR.

Djuric highlighted that Italy was the first EU member state with which Serbia established a strategic partnership 15 years ago. He stated that today’s meeting between Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Minister Tajani was an opportunity to discuss strengthening this partnership on all levels—political, economic, as well as cultural and educational.

Noting that Italy is one of Serbia’s top three foreign trade partners, Djuric said that the meeting of business representatives from both countries confirms the close economic cooperation and serves as a driving force for further strengthening bilateral relations.

The head of Serbian diplomacy reiterated that full EU membership remains a priority of Serbia’s foreign policy and thanked Italy for its continuous and consistent support on this path.

Recalling that Serbia is presiding over the Central European Initiative (CEI) this year—the oldest regional initiative in this part of Europe—Djuric expressed gratitude to the Italian side for its support, given that Italy is the largest contributor to this organization and hosts the Secretariat in Trieste. He also expressed hope that intensive cooperation will continue during Serbia’s presidency.

Regarding Kosovo and Metohija, Djuric pointed out the unilateral actions of the Pristina authorities, which have led to a concerning and alarming deterioration of the fundamental human rights of Serbs in the province.

In this context, Djuric stated that Serbia highly appreciates Italy’s presence within KFOR and its efforts in preserving Serbian monasteries and ensuring the security of the Serbian people in Kosovo and Metohija.

According to the Serbian Foreign Minister, Serbia remains committed to maintaining peace and stability in the region while strengthening its economic environment and economy, which, as Djuric assessed, is one of the key conditions for improving cooperation and good neighborly relations.

Minister Djuric welcomed Tajani today at Nikola Tesla Airport.