Kozarev at the Belgrade Economic Forum

Speaking on the panel entitled “Geopolitical Changes and the Future of International Relations,” Kozarev addressed current geopolitical challenges, underscoring Serbia’s commitment to regional cooperation and to a policy of balance.

He emphasized that Serbia remains strategically committed to attaining full membership in the European Union, while at the same time neither forgetting nor abandoning its traditional friendships.

Recalling that Serbia and the United States should initiate a strategic dialogue, the Secretary General noted that Serbia continues to maintain a positive dynamic in its relations with China and Russia as its traditional partners.

Kozarev placed special emphasis on regional cooperation as the most important political and economic factor for stability and prosperity in this part of Europe, adding that Serbia was the first to embrace the Berlin Process and the Open Balkan initiative, as it believes it is beneficial for all Western Balkan countries that are not members of the EU to come together in a form of “mini-Schengen” ahead of full Schengen integration.

“We are opening new horizons in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, and renewing long-standing friendships dating back to the era of the Non-Aligned Movement,” Kozarev said, stressing that these represent valuable market and investment opportunities.

Referring to economic progress as a key national interest, the Secretary General noted that Serbia has reached a level exceeding €90 billion in GDP and is expected to surpass €100 billion by 2027 - representing a tripling of the national economy over a 15-year period, given that GDP stood at approximately €33 billion in 2012.

Kozarev concluded that all indicators demonstrate that Serbia has achieved its objective: to advance and remain true to itself amid a challenging global environment.