Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djuric (BETAPHOTO/MINISTARSTVO SPOLJNIH POSLOVA SRBIJE)
Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djuric on July 14 said that the US has decided to launch a strategic dialogue with Serbia, describing it as one of the most important steps in bilateral relations in the past few years.
“For the first time in our history, Serbia and the US are set to lift their relations to the level of a strategic partnership,” Djuric told the RTS public broadcaster, adding that the opening dialogue session will be held in Washington on July 17.
It means, he added, that the administration of President Donald Trump is sending a strong message not only to Serbia and its administration and people, but also to American institutions, that Serbia is perceived as a partner and a friendly country.
Djuric added that at the invitation of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, he is travelling to Washington, where he will attend a summit on July 16, but described the session scheduled for Friday, July 18, as “a historic diplomatic event in the relations between Serbia and the US,” which, he said, will further strengthen Serbia’s economy, people and international position.
“This puts Serbia in a completely different group of countries in terms of the quality and level of relations. Today, Serbia is stepping into the territory where not even the former Yugoslavia was - to be officially recognized as one of the strategic partners of the US,” Djuric stressed.
He explained that this strategic partnership is in the national interest of Serbia, that it is important for Kosovo and the protection of the local Serbs, and also for Republika Srpska, as well as for the economy as it sends a signal to investors.
“We are leaving behind a certain period in our relationship with the USA, and we are starting a new chapter when our relationship will not be all sunshine and rainbows, but now we are entering a new level of relations,” Djuric specified.
He also said that Serbia is a country conducting an independent policy, expressing his belief that such a policy will render best result for the citizens, adding that it is met with respect even by those abroad who disagree with it. Djuric added that the Trump administration’s decision to launch a strategic dialogue demonstrates its respect for Serbia’s independent course.
The foreign minister also said that representatives of several ministries, including of Energy, Defense, Education, Science and Technology, will also attend the meeting on July 17, adding he is expecting “great news from Washington,” but right now does not wish to reveal further details.
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