BELGRADE - Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has once again confirmed that Serbia's strategic goal remains accession to the European Union, despite ongoing disagreements and mutual disappointments between Belgrade and Brussels. In his address, he emphasized that Serbia's path towards Europe has no alternative, while at the same time rejecting any disruption of traditionally good relations with Russia and other Asian countries.
“There are thousands of reasons for disappointment, just as there are disappointments on their side. Ultimately, Serbia remains on the European path, and that is where I want to see Serbia – in the European Union,” Vučić said. At the same time, he emphasized that his position is clear and does not allow for any reservations. “Allow me to be crystal clear – no buts,” he declared.
The President also pointed out that Serbia faces a complex task of balancing its European ambitions with maintaining long-term partnerships outside the European Union. According to him, it is essential to continue friendly relations with Asian countries, among which he mentioned Russia.
Vučić rejected the approach that Serbia should interrupt cooperation with certain states solely based on the position of other countries. “We cannot take a stand against someone simply because someone else is taking a stand against them,” he said. He also added that he sees no reason why Serbia should not develop cooperation with Ukraine. According to him, the priority is achieving peace and maintaining a balanced foreign policy.
In connection with frequent comments that Serbia is balancing between East and West, the President acknowledged that a certain form of balance is common in international relations. However, he emphasized that when it comes to the country's long-term future, European integration represents a clearly defined strategic direction. “People say that we are balancing, and balancing is possible in many respects, but not when it comes to your future. The European path is our strategic goal. There is no alternative for us,” Vučić declared.
In conclusion, he highlighted the importance of cooperation with all countries aspiring to join the European Union. According to him, strengthening mutual relations between candidate countries is an important prerequisite for further progress in the process of European integration. The Serbian President thus confirmed that Belgrade intends to continue its pro-European orientation, while at the same time seeking to maintain open relationships with traditional partners in the East.