Velebit: Serbia and the US to sign strategic dialogue agreement, major news for Belgrade

Serbia and the United States will sign an agreement on strategic dialogue this weekend, and Vuk Velebit, the executive director of the Pupin Initiative, considers this a major development for both Belgrade and Washington, as it will elevate bilateral relations to a much higher level of cooperation.

Speaking on Euronews Serbia, Velebit emphasized that strategic partnerships represent a diplomatic tool in US foreign policy, where the US establishes strategic dialogue by recognizing partner states. The agreement will be signed this weekend during the visit of Richard Verma, the US Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, to Belgrade.

“Serbia already has such agreements with Beijing, Moscow, and the EU. This establishes a framework for future relations, meaning that the Serbian and American sides will agree on areas of focus for the coming period. This is significant for Serbia as it completes the ‘four pillars of foreign policy’ strategy by now having strategic relations with China, Russia, the EU, and the US,” Velebit said.

He noted that Belgrade will now gain greater significance in its relations with the US and that the dialogue will open many topics, particularly concerning security and economic cooperation.

“When the US initiates dialogue with a partner state, it sends a message to investors that the country is a desirable destination for investment. It is also important for the US to maintain good relations with Serbia, as it is the most significant country in the Western Balkans. By initiating this dialogue, both Serbia and the US will meet their objectives, but Serbia will strengthen its foreign policy position,” the executive director of the Pupin Initiative said.

When asked if this dialogue represents a step forward in relations with the West at the expense of ties with the East, Velebit responded that a strategic dialogue with the US signifies a balancing of relations with China and Russia.

“In the context of global developments, this is an important message that Serbia is committed to developing relationships. I would remind you that in recent years, Belgrade neglected its relationship with the US, while Washington focused more on Sarajevo and Podgorica. That is now changing. We are pleased about this strategic dialogue, we proposed it in September and discussed it with US officials. This is great news for the citizens as it will also simplify administrative processes,” Velebit stated.

Regarding discussions about sanctions on NIS company, Velebit said it remains to be seen what will happen.

“NIS was sold in 2008 at a very low price, which I believe was detrimental to Serbia's national interests. I think a potential return of NIS to Serbian ownership would benefit Serbia and preserve our energy independence. Energy will be a key topic within the strategic dialogue. The US has made it clear that it is interested in Serbia's copper and lithium resources,” Velebit said.

He added that relations between Serbia and the US have been improving during President Biden's administration and sees no reason why this would not continue after January 20.

“We have proposed that the American president visit Belgrade. A visit by Trump to Belgrade would symbolize the positive signals from both Belgrade and Washington regarding the deepening of relations. Serbia is now viewed more positively and is considered a reliable partner. This is excellent for Serbia’s international position,” Velebit concluded.