Macut, Pierce discuss further strengthening of Serbia-UK relations

BELGRADE - Serbian PM Djuro Macut met with the UK's special Western Balkans envoy Karen Pierce in Belgrade on Wednesday to discuss current political and economic topics, as well as further strengthening of Serbia-UK bilateral relations.

"Macut underlined that Serbia attaches great importance to cooperation with the United Kingdom, that it is committed to improving relations in the fields of science, education, health care, culture, energy, trade and digital transformation, and that there is potential for the additional connecting of the economies and encouraging new investment projects," a government statement said.

"Speaking about regional cooperation, the Prime Minister stressed that our country remains a reliable and responsbile partner, committed to keeping peace and stability and added that Serbia contributes to strengthening trust through initiatives aimed at economic connectivity, improving infrastructure and the free flow of people, goods, servcies and capital in the region.

He underlined that dialogue is a key mechanism for resolving outstanding issues and that Serbia will continue to act responsibly and in line with international law.

The Prime Minister reiterated the initiative for a more liberal visa regime for Serbian citizens, which would facilitate the mobility of people and contribute to strengthening business and academic ties.

Pierce stressed that the United Kingdom remains a reliable partner for Serbia, providing support for reform processes, economic development and strengthening the rule of law.

She highlighted the importance of preserving regional stability, as well as the continuation of the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue.

The interlocutors agreed that strengthening institutional cooperation and regular political dialogue are of key importance for the stability and prosperity of the region and that maintaining regular contacts at all levels is important for improving relations between Serbia and the United Kingdom," it also said.