Djuric: Serbs must be united before elections in Kosovo and Metohija; Grenell’s appointment is good for the region

The Serbian Foreign Minister, Marko Djuric, stated that due to the difficult conditions in which they live, it is of great importance for Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija to remain united about the Serb List. Commenting on the appointment of Richard Grenell, he described it as a positive development for the region and highlighted that Serbian diplomacy is operating "at full throttle."

Appearing on RTS, Djuric shared that over a decade ago, he participated in discussions with Serbian representatives to establish a political organization uniting all Serbs in Kosovo.

“We sought to bring them together and create an important organization that would ensure unity in the fight for justice. That is what the Serb List represents. Over time, its leadership has changed, but the core idea, Serbs speaking with one voice under difficult circumstances and being supported by the state, remains. It is crucial for the survival of Serbs in Kosovo that they remain united,” Djuric said.

Regarding Richard Grenell’s appointment as the US Special Envoy for Global Operations, Djuric expressed optimism.

“Mr. Grenell is one of President Trump’s trusted associates, someone he considers a rising star who will play a significant role during his term. A special department was created for Grenell, and there is no doubt he will influence the resolution of global conflicts. We have known Grenell for many years and have a good relationship with him. It is good news that someone familiar with the region will be involved. Does this mean he will always agree with us? Of course not. They have their stance, and we have ours, particularly on Kosovo and Metohija,” Djuric explained.

He also mentioned his recent trip to Washington, where he worked to strengthen Serbia’s ties with key US figures.

“I met with congressmen, senators, and various contacts. It was important for me to meet with key Serbian diaspora leaders who are now advocating for Serbia. Finally, we are building a Serbian lobby,” he said.

Speaking about the upcoming EU meeting discussing the potential opening of Cluster 3, Djuric stated that achieving European standards in governance and quality of life remains a strategic goal for Serbia.

“We aim to complete all necessary reforms for EU membership by 2026. To achieve this, we need to overcome technobureaucratic hurdles like opening clusters, which often involve bilateral issues. We have made significant progress in gaining the support of European countries, as you’ll see tonight and in the coming days. Greece strongly supports Serbia’s EU integration, and I have received positive signals from the Baltics as well. President Vucic has had productive discussions with German and French leaders. Serbia is firmly on its path to EU membership. As a historically European nation, with 70% of our trade tied to the EU, this will help us access European funds and raise living standards,” he explained.

Regarding sanctions on NIS company, Djuric stated that intensive discussions with US and Russian representatives are planned in the coming days.

“Our policy of maintaining a Serbian seat has stood the test of time. Despite challenging circumstances, we have preserved our friendships and connections, and our economic growth remains stable. We will certainly discuss NIS. Serbia has made strides in ensuring energy security, such as opening a new block in the ‘Nikola Tesla’ thermal power plant. We have also signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the US, which will undoubtedly bring benefits,” Djuric said.

He added that Serbian diplomacy is operating at full throttle.

“We are striving to expand our friendships. For the first time in 15 years, we will organize a major ambassadors’ conference in Belgrade in late December, bringing together 103 diplomatic leaders. We will be more present globally, working harder to improve Serbia’s image with enthusiasm. Serbia and the People’s Republic of China share an ironclad friendship. On December 20, I will pay an official visit to Beijing to strengthen ties with this great and friendly nation,” Djuric concluded.