Đurić and Szijjártó: Continuing strategic cooperation between Serbia and Hungary

At a joint press conference with the head of Hungarian diplomacy, Đurić highlighted that these relations have been strategic in nature for many years, and that exceptional results have been achieved in recent months within the framework of the Strategic Council for Cooperation.

"We are accelerating our efforts on projects in the area of infrastructure connectivity, the construction of new energy channels such as oil pipelines, and deepening cooperation in the area of creating border crossings that will be the most modern, best flowing in Europe, and the safest," Đurić stated.

Đurić also mentioned that work is underway on a joint innovation forum between the two countries aimed at modernizing economies and participating in the development of modern technologies.

He reminded that Serbia is chairing the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence, which presents an opportunity for both Serbia and Hungary to be involved in shaping and developing policies and principles, considering that this field is becoming an increasingly significant topic affecting socio-political and economic currents.

The head of Serbian diplomacy thanked Hungary for its dedicated support of Serbia in the international arena and noted that during Hungary's presidency of the EU, we witnessed its genuine commitment to the European integration of Serbia and other countries in our region.

"I wish to also express gratitude for the excellent relations with the Serbian national community in Hungary, as this kind of relationship has demonstrated not only the closeness between our two peoples and our two countries but also that we stand behind the principles of respecting and honoring cultural identities, spiritual identities, and the history of the peoples living in our area," Đurić said.

The Serbian foreign minister added that he had discussed various global issues and the situation in Europe after the arrival of the new American administration and elections in a number of significant European countries, which will continue to change the European political map this year.

"I want to say that adaptability is a key word for us, and together with our Hungarian friends, we will continue not only to seek new opportunities but also to create new opportunities for the affirmation of our economic and political interests," the head of Serbian diplomacy emphasized.

Regarding the situation in Kosovo and Metohija, Đurić mentioned that elections were recently held there, and counting of votes is underway, but unfortunately, there are attempts to somehow influence the outcome of how the citizens voted.

"We are closely monitoring and watching how this situation unfolds and expect the will of the citizens to be respected and not altered in any political manner," Minister Đurić said.

According to him, Serbia is committed to stability, peace, good relations both within the country and in the region.

Speaking about the internal political situation, Đurić pointed out that in Serbia, we have both the resilience and the wisdom to prevent scenarios that could resemble either colored revolutions or various other attempts at destabilization from occurring in our country.

"I have informed Mr. Szijjártó about all the steps and measures taken by the Prime Minister and other institutions to strengthen social dialogue, build democratic capacities, and address certain legitimate expectations of our public," the head of Serbian diplomacy stated.

Highlighting the importance of the Specialized Exhibition "Expo 2027," which will be hosted by our country, Đurić expressed pleasure that Hungary will have a notable presence at this major international event.

Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó emphasized that the election of Donald Trump as President of the USA has created a new geopolitical reality.

"We are pleased that the Serbian and Hungarian governments attribute strategic importance to the continuous improvement of bilateral relations, which is now particularly important as a new world order is being formed around us. We live in a completely new geopolitical reality, and I must tell you that this is good news for us," the head of Hungarian diplomacy said.

According to his statements, it is in Hungary's interest for Serbia to enjoy stability and peace.

"I must emphasize that we greatly value the efforts of the President of Serbia and the Serbian government, which are crucial for the development of Hungarian-Serbian relations," said Szijjártó.

He noted that Europe is facing significant challenges, as European competitiveness has dramatically declined, and an exit from such a situation could be a new impetus for the European Union, potentially originating from the Western Balkans, where Serbia plays a leading role.

"If we look at the facts, we can say that the membership of Western Balkan countries in the European Union is equally important for the EU as it is for the Balkan states themselves," Szijjártó stated, adding that Hungary will continue to provide all necessary support to accelerate the process of Serbia's European integration in the future.

Expressing satisfaction with the excellent results of cooperation between Serbia and Hungary, Szijjártó announced new joint projects, such as the construction of a new oil pipeline, increasing the capacity of electric energy connections, and improving the operations of border crossings.