Putin Promises Vucic Favorable Gas Price, Wishes Him Success in Elections

Vucic, Putin (Alexei Nikolsky, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Nov. 25, during the meeting with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Sochi, that a solution for the price of Russian gas that is favorable for Serbia would be found, and wished Vucic success in the forthcoming elections in April.

"I know some issues are of particular concern for you, pertaining to the expiration of the gas procurement contract. I think we will come to an agreement, we will instruct the relevant subjects to finish that job. In any case, we will find the solution that will certainly be acceptable for our Serbian friends," Putin said, adding that elections would be held in Serbia in April and wished Vucic success.

The Russian president underscored the importance of the two countries cooperation in the military-technical sector and in the international arena. "As for Kosovo – you know that Russia's position is principled and not prone to submission to the daily political situation. We support your position regarding the solving of the Kosovo problem and I hope it would be solved in the way that will suit the interests of all people living there," Putin said.

Vucic thanked Putin for finding the time to meet him despite the coronavirus pandemic. "I believe relations between Serbia and Russia are at the highest level, that the two countries are strategic partners and that relations are developing in all fields," Vucic said, expressing immense gratitude for Russia's support to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Serbia. He stated after the meeting that Belgrade would be buying Russia's gas at the same price as before, 270 dollars per 1,000 cubic meters, in the forthcoming six months.