Djuric receives Italian ambassador

BELGRADE - Serbian FM Marko Djuric met with Italian Ambassador to Belgrade Luca Gori on Monday to discuss key issues of mutual interest, with a view to further enhancing the already strong cooperation in the fields of economy, energy and high technology as well as exploring opportunities to accelerate Serbia’s EU accession process, the Serbian MFA said.

"The head of Serbian diplomacy expressed satisfaction with the level of bilateral relations achieved and extended particular appreciation for the excellent organisation and outcomes of his visit to Italy last week, where he participated in the session of the Central European Initiative and had the opportunity to meet with the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani," it said in a statement.

"In the context of the upcoming International Specialised Exhibition EXPO 2027 in Belgrade, the interlocutors reviewed activities and specific projects aimed at promoting the event in the coming months, with the involvement of both Serbian and Italian institutions. Particular attention was devoted to the organisation of bilateral and regional events focused on strengthening cooperation in the areas of economy, energy, and emerging technologies.

Referring to the situation in Kosovo-Metohija, Minister Djuric underlined that Belgrade consistently maintains a constructive approach and expressed the expectation that the European Union and its institutions will closely monitor and support the implementation of the recently reached agreement on the functioning of healthcare and educational institutions in the southern Serbian province.

Minister Djuric reiterated that membership in the European Union remains a strategic commitment and a foreign policy priority of the Republic of Serbia, expressing gratitude for Italy’s dedicated support in this regard. He emphasised that the integration of Serbia and the other countries of the Western Balkans has gained additional importance in light of current geopolitical challenges and armed conflicts in several regions of the world. He concluded by noting that Serbia is working to implement the necessary reforms and meet the relevant guidelines and recommendations by the end of 2026, in order to be ready for EU membership," the ministry also said.