Published October 25,2023
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Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic stated Wednesday his authorities will proceed to work to develop relations with Türkiye and the continuation of political dialogue.
“We have demonstrated the highest level of relations between the two countries in modern history,” Vucic wrote on social media after assembly Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler.
Vucic stated Güler’s go to to Belgrade has excessive significance.
“The visit will prove and additional contribution to the very important role that Serbia and Türkiye play in maintaining peace and stability throughout the Balkans,” he stated.
Güler’s go to to the Serbian capital got here after Türkiye took command of NATO’s peacekeeping mission (KFOR) in Kosovo earlier this month.
At least 450 Turkish troops are collaborating in KFOR.
Vucic stated Serbia is decided to proceed the EU’s dialogue course of with Pristina for normalization of relations.
“I pointed out that at this moment it is primarily necessary to ensure the safety of the Serbian people in Kosovo,” stated Vucic.
Güler later met his Serbian counterpart, Milos Vucevic.
Vucevic stated in an announcement that Güler’s go to got here on the proper second, considering every little thing that’s occurring within the Western Balkans area.
“The dominant topic of our conversation was the issue of security in Kosovo and Metohija. We are encouraged by the assurances we received from Mr. Güler regarding the security of the Serbian community in Kosovo and Metohija,” stated Vucevic.
Vucevic added that Serbia and the Serbs in Kosovo do not need any drawback with the presence of KFOR members.
The assertion stated Güler ensured Serbia and Serbs in Kosovo that Türkiye would do every little thing to protect stability and safety.
“Our country, which took over the command of KFOR, will continue to give priority to stability, security and public order in an impartial manner,” stated Güler.
Under UN Security Council Resolution 1244, NATO has led a peacekeeping mission in Kosovo since 1999. Currently, KFOR has greater than 4,500 troops contributed by 27 NATO allies and companions.
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 and was acknowledged by many nations, together with Türkiye. But Belgrade has by no means acknowledged Kosovo and claims that it’s nonetheless a part of Serbia.
“Belgrade is determined in the dialogue process with Pristina, but at this point, I informed the Minister that ensuring the security of the Serbs in the north of Kosovo is a priority. I also stated that the mutual agreements should be implemented without further delay,” stated Vucic.
Source: www.anews.com.tr