Vucevic: The decision on Kosovo license plates does not imply recognition; we will never recognize Kosovo

Deputy Prime Minister of the Government of Serbia and Minister of Defense, Milos Vucevic, stated tonight that allowing residents of Kosovo to travel through Serbia using license plates with Kosovo's markings absolutely did not imply recognition of Kosovo's independence and stated that Serbia would never recognize the independence of Kosovo and Metohija, even though it would face significant pressures.

"We always make it clear that allowing someone into the territory of central Serbia with those license plates does not mean recognition of Kosovo's independence. We will never recognize the independence of Kosovo and Metohija, and we will never agree for what Pristina calls Kosovo to become a member of the United Nations", Vucevic said for RTV.

He pointed out that Serbia would be subjected to great pressure because major Western states were sponsors of Kosovo's independence.

"We are doing our utmost to reduce the number of countries that have recognized the so-called Kosovo. Twenty-seven countries (28th is questionable) have withdrawn their recognition of the so-called Kosovo. Several times, we have defended ourselves to prevent the so-called Kosovo from entering Interpol, from entering UNESCO, and from signing any document that would jeopardize the territorial integrity of our state. It is a very difficult situation. Citizens should not be confused when we agree on certain things to strategically preserve the state. This does not mean capitulation; this does not mean giving up on key state, national, and people's interests. It means a bit of wisdom in politics and not always provoking an unfortunate fate", Vucevic emphasized.

He added that this was not the time for cheap slogans and casually spoken statements that could cost the country or citizens a high price.

"It is very demanding to preserve the Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija, as we have limited sovereignty, no police or army in Kosovo and Metohija, and we lack all the instruments that a state should have on its territory. We face immense difficulties in preserving our people in Kosovo and Metohija without jeopardizing other citizens of Serbia", Vucevic noted.