Djuric: Social, political stability crucial for continued development of Serbia

BELGRADE - Welcoming a new generation of the Diplomatic Academy of the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, FM Marko Djuric said on Monday social and political stability was crucial for preserving the preconditions for continued development of the country and for conducting an independent internal and foreign policy.

In an address to some 70 new Academy trainees, Djuric said there was a great ambition to strengthen Serbia's diplomatic capacities to enable the country to efficiently protect its state and national interests, the MFA said in a statement.

"Serbia is a country that has a great need for affirmation in the international arena, for building a network of influence, and an enormous need to understand what is going on and what will be going on on different meridians in the years and decades to come," Djuric noted.

In the period to come, everyone in the government system who engages in international cooperation will have the obligation of working, with much patriotism, energy and dedication, not only on Serbia's reputation but also on advancing its influence and political strength while respecting the values that are the foundation of our country, Djuric said.

"Your task is to fight, every day, for Serbia's interests and, starting from as early as tomorrow, when your training begins, you will practically be on the line of defence of our country and its interests. None of us should ever lose sight of that and, in our service, we should act like a family," Djuric said.