Djuric: Serbian diplomats on first line of defence of country's interests

BELGRADE - Serbian FM Marko Djuric on Monday presented diplomas to participants of the Diplomatic Academy who have successfully completed its training programme, noting that the diplomatic profession put Serbian diplomats on the first line of defence of their country’s interests "every single day, throughout the entire year."

He wished the new class of participants to surpass all previous generations in both achievement and dedication, the Serbian MFA said in a statement.

"This is a wonderful way to conclude a demanding year in the work of our diplomatic service, and an important day, as I have the honour to announce that 77 participants have successfully completed the Diplomatic Academy programme. I would like to congratulate everyone, and to offer particular praise to those who distinguished themselves through exceptional effort," Djuric said.

He also extended special congratulations to the top-performing members of this generation - Vladimir Zivkovic from the MFA and Miljana Ivkovic from the Ministry of Defence.

“While other services prepare for contingencies and act when circumstances require it, our service is always active - both in times of ease and in times of difficulty. Representing our country’s interests is a constant calling, not merely a regular workplace or a job,” Djuric said.

The challenges of our time - particularly those faced by representatives of the Republic of Serbia - are so numerous and complex that they require continuous personal and professional development from everyone involved, he said.

“This outstanding programme contributes significantly to building each of your capacities, but there is also a clear need to continue professional development throughout one’s work and career,” he noted.

Speaking about the objectives for the year ahead, he pointed out that priorities would include continued efforts to preserve stability in the region under highly complex circumstances; safeguarding Serbia’s independent and militarily neutral position; strengthening the country’s economic capacities; and preserving the cultural, historical, and spiritual heritage of the Serbs and all peoples living in the Republic of Serbia.

Serbia's top diplomat noted that considerably greater efforts would be required to protect Serbia’s position regarding Kosovo-Metohija.

Addressing regional issues, the minister added that the status of Serbs in the region remained a matter of constant attention and engagement, and one that required particular care, while work with the Serbian diaspora was no less important.

He also highlighted the importance of economic diplomacy as a necessary precondition for maintaining strong economic results in the coming period.

“All of this largely rests on the people who are joining the diplomatic service, who must first and foremost be the true and best face of Serbia - every day and in everything they do, both professionally and privately. This is not merely a job; it is a calling, a calling that obliges us to give our very best every day and to pursue continuous self-improvement,” Djuric concluded.

"Once again congratulating those present and extending his warmest wishes on the occasion of the upcoming holidays, Minister Djuric noted that 2026 will be a year in which the ministry he leads will be significantly expanded with many additional high-quality professionals," the MFA also said.