26.09.2010.
Minister at the ceremony in Polikastro marking 92nd anniversary of Thessalonika front breakthrough
Minister Sutanovac attended the ceremony in Polikastro to mark the anniversary of the breakthrough of the Salonika front, which was held at the monument erected in 1968 in honor of the great victory of the Allies. On that occasion, Defence Minister addressed at the ceremony with the following wordsLadies and Gentlemen,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to a place where nearly a century ago, our two brotherly nations united in a joint struggle against the enemy.
At the moment when the Serbian people and its state leadership were fighting for survival, the Greek people gave us shelter and a second home where we could dream the dreams of freedom.
We have been passing down the story of the hospitality of the Greek people and the allies, who had warmly received the Serbian people and army, helping them in the final liberation of Serbia. Many poems and memorable stories that have become part of common history and cultural heritage have sprung up. Numerous monuments, one of them being the one where we have gathered today, testify to this long-lasting friendship.
I hope that time comes we will not make the similar historical challenges and that we will not allow the use of weapons in our region. Let the memory of the dead and monuments that remind us of the hard times to be a link that will forever link our peoples in the centuries to come. Our commitment is to set up connections cultivate and promote.
The problems of the past, unfortunately, still burden the relations in the South Eastern Europe, although we are aware that peace and stability are the main requirements for the overall development and integration into European and Euro-Atlantic integration. So we try to suppress joint threats against the vital interests of both countries in hope to create conditions for a better life in this region.
Serbia is committed to the stability of the Western Balkans and provides a key contribution to the democratic transformation of the region, regional cooperation and territorial integrity of neighboring countries. Serbia is making efforts to resolve all problems through the institutions of the international community, insisting on respect for international norms and rules for the benefit of mankind.
The main priority of Serbia’s foreign policy is attaining membership in the European Union. We look forward to gaining the candidate status by the end of next year. Serbia is interested in participating in the missions of the European Union. In addition, we plan to increase our participation in UN missions which all testifies to Serbian readiness to give n active contribution to building global security.
Once again I invite you to unite in our joint effort to ensure peace and friendship among nations at this holy place, at the resting place of our ancestors.
