FM Djuric, EU envoy Sorensen discuss resumption of Belgrade–Pristina dialogue

During the meeting in Belgrade, Djuric emphasized that Serbia remains firmly committed to the normalization process and shares with the EU a “clear and mutual interest in seeing progress,” said a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He stressed the need for greater focus on the situation on the ground in the continuation of the dialogue, noting that “unilateral actions by Pristina and the negative political climate they create” have so far posed the greatest threat and obstacle to a productive dialogue, the press release said.

It added that Djuric voiced particular concern over politically motivated legal proceedings against Serbs, stating that these actions aim to create “an atmosphere of legal and existential insecurity among the Serbian population in Kosovo and Metohija.” He urged the EU to use its influence to help prevent what he called a “form of political persecution.” (Kosovo and Metohija is the official name for what the Serbian authorities consider to be the country’s southern province)

The Ministry said Djuric assured Sorensen that Belgrade will continue to take a constructive approach in the normalization talks with Pristina.