Djuric: We are opening new chapter in Serbia-Canada relations

OTTAWA - Speaking to reporters after discussions in Ottawa with Canadian counterpart Anita Anand and a meeting with members of a Canada–Serbia parliamentary friendship group, Serbian FM Marko Djuric said a new chapter in the relations with Canada had been opened and would be marked by serious and successful economic results.

"I am convinced that this chapter will be marked by serious and successful economic results, and I also hope by a somewhat more liberal visa regime. It is already marked by direct flights between Belgrade and Toronto, which mean a great deal for maintaining ties with an entire branch of our people living here," a statement released by the Serbian MFA quoted Djuric as saying.

"As he added, the manner in which the Serbian delegation was received indicates an awareness of the significance of the role Serbia plays in Southeast Europe, as well as the potential for the country to serve as one of the entry points for cooperation between Canada and Europe, or at least this part of Europe," it also said.

"I would say that we have successfully accomplished our task of opening doors for Serbia. Here, at the initiative of our Embassy and the excellent team operating here, a Serbia–Canada business forum is also taking place, bringing together around seventy companies — approximately 40 Canadian and 30 Serbian companies," Djuric said.

He said the visit had "opened doors and refreshed the image of Serbia", which, he noted, had in a way "remained frozen within the political establishment in perceptions dating back more than 30 years".

"There are not many moments like this when you break the ice. This is, in fact, the first ministerial visit after ten years, but I would also say that it is a visit that will bring our two countries closer together in many ways,” Djuric concluded.

In a separate statement, the Serbian MFA said Djuric and Anand had discussed advancement of bilateral cooperation, strengthening of political dialogue and other issues of mutual interest.

"Expressing satisfaction that the visit to Canada is taking place in the year marking the 85th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and noting that it is the first visit by a Serbian foreign minister to Canada in ten years, Djuric emphasised that Serbia remains firmly committed to further strengthening relations with Canada and extended an invitation to Minister Anand to visit Serbia," it said.

"He particularly welcomed the re-establishment of the direct air route between Belgrade and Toronto after 34 years, assessing that it would significantly contribute to better connectivity between citizens and business communities, as well as to the further development of economic cooperation between the two countries.

Speaking about economic relations, Djuric pointed to the significant yet still insufficiently utilised potential in the fields of trade and investment. He expressed confidence that the Serbian-Canadian Business Forum, to be held in Toronto, would provide a new impetus to cooperation between business communities and contribute to the more dynamic development of economic ties.

He underlined that Belgrade expects stronger cooperation with Canada in all areas of mutual interest, particularly in light of the sizeable Serbian diaspora living in that country," it said.

Djuric also informed Anand of the situation in Kosovo-Metohija, pointing to the exceptionally difficult position of Serbs in the province.

He reiterated that Belgrade remained committed to dialogue with Pristina and expressed the expectation that conditions for a continuation of high-level dialogue would soon be created.

"The officials also discussed Serbia’s foreign policy priorities, the situation in the region, European integration, as well as current international issues," the MFA said.