Djuric: North Macedonia can count on us, Serbian doctors are fighting to save every child

Serbia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marko Djuric, stated today that the tragic and indescribable disaster in Kocani has shaken every heart in Serbia, the Balkans, Europe, and beyond. He emphasized that Serbia immediately stood by its brothers in North Macedonia with concrete actions and that Serbian doctors are heroically fighting to save all the injured.

Djuric met today with his Macedonian counterpart, Timco Mucunski, highlighting that, following the orders of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, all available forms of assistance were sent to help in the fight for every human life.

“Today, we met in Belgrade with my dear colleague Timco Mucunski under very sad circumstances. The unimaginable and immeasurable tragedy that occurred in Kocani a few days ago has shaken every heart in Serbia, the Balkans, Europe, and I would say, far beyond. From the very first moment, in the first hours after this indescribable tragedy, our country responded with concrete actions and stood by our friends and brothers from North Macedonia. Under the directive of President Aleksandar Vucic and the government, we have sent all available forms of assistance to contribute to the fight for every human life,” Serbia’s top diplomat said.

He added that a large number of patients are currently in Serbian medical institutions.

"Our doctors went to the scene to assist their colleagues in providing care to the most critically injured. Our fight, the fight of our doctors, to save every child, ranging in age from 14 to 26, will continue. There is absolutely nothing that Serbia will not do to help the victims and our brothers and friends. Dear Timco, all those affected are in the thoughts and prayers of the Serbian people. We see the injured children as our brothers and sisters,” Djuric said.

He emphasized that North Macedonia can count on Serbia 100%, not only as a humanitarian issue but as a reflection of genuine friendship and the centuries-old ties between the two nations.

“We truly pray for the recovery of the patients and for those fighting for their lives. Some injuries are horrific, and the tragedies are of epic and biblical proportions, families have been devastated, children have lost their parents, and many parents have lost their children. We must do everything in our region to prevent such tragedies from happening again,” Djuric concluded.

Minister Mucunski expressed gratitude for Serbia’s assistance and solidarity, emphasizing that Serbian officials were among the first leaders to offer help. He noted that within less than 12 hours after the tragedy, the first group of patients had already been transferred to hospitals in Serbia.

He especially thanked the dedication and sacrifice of Serbian doctors and hospital staff in treating the patients, as well as for the support given to their families. He stated that in these moments of deep sorrow, the solidarity and support of friends mean a great deal, helping to overcome all challenges.