Today (17 May 2021), NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with President Aleksandar Vučić of the Republic of Serbia at NATO Headquarters. They discussed the partnership between NATO and Serbia, NATO’s role in upholding stability in the Western Balkans, and security trends across the region.
“Serbia is a long-standing partner to our Alliance, and I thank you for your personal commitment to our partnership,” Secretary General Stoltenberg said. “NATO is committed to building a strong partnership with Serbia,” while fully respecting its neutrality. “As a sovereign nation, Serbia has the right to choose its own path. We face common security challenges; and partnership with NATO can bring real benefits to Serbia and its citizens, and the wider region,” he added.
“NATO has been committed to peace and stability in the Western Balkans for decades, and we will continue to stay committed. Our KFOR mission is the most tangible demonstration of this commitment,” the NATO Secretary General pointed out. “KFOR provides a safe and secure environment, and guarantees freedom of movement for the benefit of all communities in Kosovo, based on our United Nations Security Council mandate. NATO Allies are firmly committed to KFOR, and to its important mission,” he underscored.
Mr. Stoltenberg remarked that “NATO also fully supports the normalisation process between Belgrade and Pristina.” “The Belgrade-Pristina dialogue is the best platform to find a solution that respects the rights of all communities and to build a lasting peace that guarantees a better and more prosperous future for all. Constructive dialogue is key for stability in this region, and I continue to call on all parties to engage in dialogue,” he emphasized.