Djuric: We are lobbying for the new US President Donald Trump to visit Serbia

Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djuric expressed hope that after January 21 and the inauguration of the new US President Donald Trump, a new impetus will be given to talks aimed at resolving conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. He also noted that Belgrade is strongly lobbying for President Trump to visit Serbia.

When asked if there should be concerns about an escalation of the war in Ukraine, Djuric, speaking on TV Prva's Morning Program, said that European countries can be divided into those acting more or less responsibly toward the conflict.

"We are striving to preserve peace in our country. When you hear us discussing commodity reserves or strengthening our defensive capabilities, it is all aimed at maintaining peace and security. I sincerely hope that after January 21 and the inauguration of the new US president, a new push will be made toward talks on resolving conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. We need peace. Serbia will continue to make a constructive contribution. We have sent significant humanitarian aid to the people of Ukraine and have welcomed many individuals from war-affected countries. Could serious conflicts and problems arise? It seems that warring sides are trying to improve their positions on the ground ahead of negotiations. Things can change overnight. I remain optimistic that negotiations could begin after January 21 or early next year," Djuric stated.

When asked how Richard Grenell could assist, given the possibility he might be appointed as an envoy for the war in Ukraine, Djuric highlighted Grenell's inredible energy and ability to negotiate with deeply divided parties.

"Grenell brings significant economic and military weight from the US, and I am confident he could contribute to peace and the end of the conflict in Ukraine," the minister said.

Asked whether he and President Vucic would attend the new US president's inauguration, he responded that it depends on scheduling.

"We will work strongly to improve relations with the US. We signed a strategic agreement in the field of energy. We have had diplomatic relations since 1882. Our goal is for our people living there to strengthen those ties. My role as a minister is not to do what is most popular but to work toward creating a safe and friendly environment for Serbia across all regions," Djuric emphasized.

He added that Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic had effectively conveyed key messages about Serbia's progress and development in a recent interview with the BBC.

"Vucic presented Serbia as the country it truly is, focused on progress, the future, EXPO, and European development. Many are bothered by the fact that Serbia has its independent foreign policy. Over the past decade, President Vucic has carefully nurtured personal relationships with some of the world's most influential leaders. Serbia has demonstrated character in leading its foreign policy, which has been recognized internationally on key occasions, such as the EXPO vote and the voting on Srebrenica. We maintain a consistent message to both East and West. For us, the UN Charter is equally important regardless of whom we are speaking with," Djuric emphasized.

He noted that Serbia's foreign policy course is often a topic of discussion.

"Even those who disagree with us respect our course. We are receiving investments due to our widespread network of free trade agreements. We are the only country in the region with such agreements with China, Egypt, and several Asian countries. Serbia is firmly on its strategic path toward full EU membership. Our primary task is to complete all necessary reforms with the EU, as 70% of our economic exchange is with Europe," he stressed.

"The team led by President Vucic, along with the government team headed by Prime Minister Vucevic, who is skillfully, calmly, and steadily steering the ship of the government through very challenging and turbulent times, will continue to work on the accelerated economic, institutional, and other forms of development of our country. We strive to position ourselves as in the story of the ant and the grasshopper, ensuring stability in our country and region. This stability, which has enabled us to double our GDP in less than a decade, is our hallmark. When officials talk about reserves and strengthening defense capacities, it is all aimed at preserving stability, trust in the system, and institutions, helping us navigate turbulent times with minimal damage," he explained.

Regarding a project involving the General Staff and potential involvement by the son-in-law of the new US president, Djuric stated that attracting American investments is of great importance.

"The arrival of renowned American businessmen, including those mentioned, contributes to our economy. The specific project would enhance the appearance of downtown Belgrade. From what I understand, a memorial dedicated to the 1999 aggression would be part of it. Currently, I work in a building directly across from the ruins. Every day, I host 8–10 delegations, and the ruins are visible as soon as the curtains are drawn. I look forward to replacing those ruins with beautiful structures. My vision of Serbia's rapid development as a regional hub does not align with a backdrop of ruins from 25 years ago," he said.

Djuric added that Serbia is lobbying for the new US President Donald Trump to visit Serbia.

"I am confident he would receive the warmest possible welcome, as we have sincere intentions to elevate relations with the United States. Mr. Trump received the highest percentage of support among Serbs, which reflects Serbia's appetite for strengthening ties with the US. I hope the visit will happen. The last US president to visit Serbia was Jimmy Carter in October 1980. It is time for a new American president to come and visit our city," Djuric said.