Djuric meets with Czech special Western Balkans envoy

BELGRADE - Serbian FM Marko Djuric received Czech special Western Balkans envoy Edita Hrda in Belgrade on Tuesday to discuss the current situation in the region, Serbia’s EU integration process and key issues of mutual interest.

Djuric said the relationship between Serbia and the Czech Republic was characterised by "strong partnership and mutual respect."

"The Serbian FM expressed gratitude to the Czech Republic for its continued support of Serbia’s EU accession process, reaffirming that EU membership remains a strategic objective for Serbia and the most effective mechanism for advancing institutional reform, the rule of law, and the living standards of its citizens," the Serbian MFA said in a statement.

Djuric informed Hrda of the position of Serbs and other non-Albanians in Kosovo-Metohija, underlining the consequences of "unilateral actions taken by the provisional institutions in Pristina, which have contributed to escalating tensions on the ground."

"In this context, he expressed his expectation that the Czech Republic, as a reliable EU partner, would continue supporting efforts aimed at deescalation and the preservation of peace and stability."

Speaking about regional cooperation, Djuric underscored the importance of regional initiatives in which Serbia actively participated, with the aim of enhancing economic connectivity, freedom of movement of people, goods, and capital, and strengthening regional stability.

He noted that these processes were complementary to European integration and contributed to the region’s preparedness for EU membership.

"The Minister also stressed the importance of maintaining stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighting that, as a signatory of the Dayton Agreement and a neighboring country, Serbia bears a special responsibility and interest in ensuring that Bosnia and Herzegovina remains stable and functional.

Minister Djuric pointed to the growing role of the Czech Republic as an important economic partner and investor in Serbia and expressed his confidence that Czech investments will continue to expand across various sectors, further strengthening bilateral economic ties. In that regard, he invited the Czech Republic to actively participate in the Specialised Expo 2027 as an opportunity to deepen cooperation and promote potential partnerships," the statement also said.