Vucic: We need to resolve problems through dialogue and preserve peace and stability

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic stated today, during a joint media address with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, that issues in relations between Belgrade and Pristina must be resolved through dialogue to maintain peace and stability.

“We discussed the situation and relations in the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina. I hope that in the future we can resolve problems through dialogue, and I believe we will fully succeed in preserving stability and peace throughout the region,” said Vucic.

The President thanked Scholz for Germany's support to Serbia on its European path, specifically for the opening of Cluster 3.

Vucic pointed out that Germany is Serbia's "number one" trade partner, noting additional growth in trade exchange, which this year will exceed €10.5 billion. He recalled that more than 80,000 people work in German companies in Serbia.

“We are aware of our obligations, which are not always easy or simple. We will work diligently on issues of the rule of law, freedom of expression, and media freedom,” added Vucic.

He emphasized that today’s meeting with Scholz and the visit to Saxony are important for Serbia to find answers to difficult, pressing issues concerning the potential exploitation of lithium in the country.

“It was important for me to see Germany’s experiences, to learn more about the expertise we can gain from our German partners. We discussed how German experts can help Serbia, primarily in understanding how to protect the environment and improve the lives of people living near a mine that might eventually be opened,” said the Serbian President.

He added that he was pleased that German partners invited representatives of the non-governmental sector, opposition parties, and anti-government media to come to Saxony. He noted that Petar Filipovic from Gornje Nedeljice, who had protested against the opening of a lithium mine, was also in Saxony today with the Serbian delegation.

“He had the opportunity today to ask Scholz and everyone here questions and receive answers. For us, the exchange of experiences, German expertise, and the cooperation between the Faculty of Mining and Geology and the Academy in Freiberg are crucial because Serbia is rich in ores, minerals, and rare metals,” Vucic remarked.

He further stated that during his visit to Germany, he learned much about organizing public debates and discussions with local communities. He noted that Saxony also has agricultural land, making it useful to hear how they resolve issues, communicate with people, and respond to every question.