First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia Ivica Dacic met in Belgrade today with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland Witold Waszczykowski.
At a press conference following the meeting Minister Dacic said that Poland was an important partner to Serbia and that the two countries should materialize an agreement on the establishment of special relations which the Polish Foreign Minister proposed earlier today at the meeting with Serbia’s Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic.
“Poland is backing Serbia’s ambition to join the EU as soon as possible and our experiences could assist you in overcoming more easily any potential problems that might arise along this path”, underlined the Polish Foreign Minister.
Minister Dacic noted that Poland could set an example to Serbia in many spheres, considering that the GDP of that country increased by 50 % since it became an EU member and that its economy recorded a 20% rise despite the economic crisis, adding that Poland had the best system for use of EU funds.
“This is why Poland’s example is one showing how a country could in the best way possible way seize an opportunity for economic development and improvement of its population’s quality of life”, underlined Dacic.
He recalled that the trade between Serbia and Poland amounted to approximately EUR 1 billion, adding that it could be even larger, to which an incoming business forum to take place soon could contribute.
Minister Dacic stated that we should make the most of the special relationship Serbia and Poland have fostered for a number of years, ever since the times of fighting for freedom in the 19th century, expressing in particular his gratitude to Poland for its understanding of Serbia’s positions in UNESCO.
The Head of Serbian diplomacy recalled that one of Poland’s previous administrations recognized the unilaterally declared independence of Kosovo and Metohija, but that diplomatic relations with Kosovo had not been established yet, adding that Poland also respected Serbia’s positions concerning the destruction of Orthodox heritage in Kosovo and Metohija, showing a profound appreciation of Serbia, unlike some countries that are at closer proximity to us.
“It is in the interest of both our countries to stick together, help each other and maintain the best possible bilateral relations”, underlined Minister Dacic.
Polish Foreign Minister Waszczykowski said that Serbia had a friend in Poland, and also that this country supported Serbia’s joining the EU as soon as possible.
“Poland gained many positive experiences in the transition process and its talks with the EU that we are willing to share with you”, said the Head of Polish diplomacy.