Strengthening strategic partnership between Serbia and France

Ivica Dacic and Jean-Yves Le DrianFirst Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia Ivica Dacic paid today a working visit to the French Republic.

The Serbian Foreign Minister met in Paris with the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic Jean-Yves Le Drian.
“I had a very good meeting with the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, bearing in mind that Serbia and France have signed an Agreement on Strategic Partnership.

We both underlined that, a century after the end of WWI, the current year is very important to remember the old Serbian-French alliance.

We are very much looking forward to the return visit of my colleague, on 12-13 April, as an introductory visit to the visit by President Macron, expected before the end of the year.

Serbia has an interest in strengthening strategic partnership with France. The intention of France is to spearhead the assistance to Serbia on the European path. Serbia is aware of all the obligations to be faced down the road, the need to continue the reform process, to settle peacefully and through dialogue all outstanding issues in the Balkans – referring to the issue of Kosovo and Metohija in the first place.

I am confident that our old ally France will have a sufficient amount of understanding for Serbia’s desire to reach a solution that will respect the interests of all sides in Kosovo and Metohija, which would be the basis of lasting peace and stability in the region”, concluded Minister Dacic emerging from the meeting.

During his visit to France, the Serbian Minister laid wreaths on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and at Serbian War Graves in Thiais. Upon laying a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Paris, Minister Dacic signed the “Golden Register”.

Ivica Dacic - Golden Register Ivica Dacic - Golden Register

“The Republic of Serbia pays tribute to the unknown hero who died for the freedom of the European people and the future of our children, expressing enormous gratitude. Even a century following the end of perishing in the Great War, the Republic of Serbia and its people are not forgetful of the sacrifices made by courageous soldiers, who laid down their lives for Serbia and France. Eternal glory to them!” inscribed the Serbian Foreign Minister.