Djuric, Lammy discuss expansion of Serbia-UK cooperation

BELGRADE - Serbia attaches great significance to further deepening of relations and enhancing cooperation with the UK, Serbian FM Marko Djuric said at a meeting with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy in Belgrade on Wednesday.

"An agreement was reached to expand the scope of existing bilateral political consultations by introducing additional topics that would form a strategic dialogue between Serbia and the UK," the Serbian MFA said in a statement released after the meeting.

"Minister Djuric emphasised Serbia’s strong commitment to deepening relations and enhancing cooperation with the United Kingdom, building on the tradition of bilateral ties and the long-shared history between the two countries and their peoples.

In this context, he welcomed the increased frequency of high-level meetings in recent months, as well as the conclusion of three bilateral Memoranda of Understanding, which will significantly contribute to strengthening commercial ties and fostering closer collaboration in cybersecurity, organised crime, and migration.

On the economic front, Minister Djuric acknowledged the growing presence of British businesses in Serbia and the steady flow of investments. He highlighted the stable upward trend in trade, particularly in goods and services, and noted the increasing cooperation in other areas of mutual interest, such as infrastructure, energy, and mining," the statement said.

"Regarding the issue of Kosovo-Metohija, Minister Djuric informed his counterpart that a series of unilateral and repressive actions by Albin Kurti’s administration have led to severe violations of the fundamental human and collective rights of Serbs, threatening their very existence in the province.

Reaffirming Serbia’s constructive approach and firm commitment to continuing the EU-facilitated dialogue, Minister Djuric reminded that the Community of Serb Municipalities, a key obligation under the 2013 Brussels Agreement, remains unimplemented. He stressed that Pristina’s deliberate obstruction, targeted pressure on the Serbian population, and failure to fulfill agreed commitments have not only stalled but significantly set back the dialogue process between Belgrade and Pristina," it said.

"Discussing Serbia’s European integration, Minister Djuric reiterated that full EU membership remains Serbia’s strategic priority. He underscored Serbia’s commitment to this goal through the rigorous implementation of reforms by the end of 2026, continuous economic progress, dedication to European values, and contributions to peace, stability, and prosperity across the continent," the MFA also said.