13.08.2016.

Djordjevic and Shoigu on further enhancement of cooperation between Serbia and Russia

Defence Minister Zoran Djordjevic talked with General of the Army Sergey Kuzhugetovich Shoigu, Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, about further improvement of cooperation between the two countries and cooperation in the defence field.

The meeting also confirmed that the relations between Serbia and the Russian Federation traditionally good and friendly, and the Declaration on Strategic Partnership, signed by the Presidents Nikolic and Putin, is the basis for further development and improvement of the overal bilateral relations. Cooperation in the field of defence is among the most important ones, as it was confirmed in the conversation.

Djordjevic said that Serbia is committed to strengthening security, stability and cooperation in the region. Membership of the EU is a major foreign policy goal and Serbia will continue to develop good relations and cooperation with the EU and the Russian Federation, Djordjevic said. The Republic of Serbia remains on the path of independent foreign policy, balanced defence policy and principle of military neutrality, the minister of defence confirmed.

Serbia is grateful for the principled support that Russia provides to territorial integrity and sovereignty of Serbia, the minister of defence highlighted in the conversation. Djordjevic said that Serbia is committed to the implementation of the Brussels Agreement and the peaceful resolution of all outstanding issues in Kosovo and Metohija.

Djordjevic and Shoigu discussed the current security challenges and risks. The officials agreed that the terrorist attacks worldwide are attacks on achievements of democracy and the modern civilization which affirm the necessity of a joint and coordinated action of the entire international community.

Djordjevic informed Minister Shoigu on the challenges of migrant crisis that Serbia is faced with and activities of joint military and police forces in safeguarding the state borders and the fight against human trafficking.

The meeting was attended by General Ljubisa Dikovic, Serbian Armed Forces Chief of General Staff.

Minister Djordjevic and General Ljubisa Dikovic attend the final competitions and closing ceremony of the International Army Games at Alabino training ground.