United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo and Metohija of priority importance to Serbia

Ivica DacicFirst Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia Ivica Dacic had talks today with UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Jean- Pierre Lacroix on the role of UNMIK, and Serbia’s contribution to UN peacekeeping operations, and the ways and means of further promoting cooperation in this area.

Minister Dacic underlined that the UN Mission in Kosovo and Metohija is of priority importance to Serbia and that Serbia is striving for the continuation of its presence and engagement, without downsizing or change of its mandate. He recalled that, according to the number of military and police personnel engaged in different peacekeeping operations, Serbia is the largest contributor in the Western Balkans region, and tenth in Europe.

Under-Secretary-General Jean- Pierre Lacroix thanked his interlocutor for Serbia’s contribution to the UN peacekeeping missions. He confirmed the commitment of the Department for Peacekeeping Operations that he is heading, to consistent implementation of the UNMIK mandate, expressing support to the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.

The two sides discussed the possibilities for and additional contribution of Serbia to peacekeeping operations, in line with the specific needs on the ground.