Đurić and UN Resident Coordinator Sign the Cooperation Framework for Sustainable Development 2026–2030

The signing ceremony was also attended by the Minister for European Integration, Nemanja Starović.

Minister Đurić underscored that the new framework document constitutes a strong and consistent affirmation of Serbia’s commitment to multilateralism and to the role of the United Nations as the cornerstone of the international order—particularly at a time when the structure of the international system is increasingly being challenged and when rules and institutions are at risk of being supplanted by force and selective interpretation.

“For Serbia, the protection of national interests does not imply isolation, but rather a clear and principled commitment to a rules-based international order,” Đurić emphasized, adding that Serbia is therefore a strong and consistent advocate of the UN system, which ensures the equality of states and prevents the logic of force from prevailing over the force of law.

He particularly highlighted the importance of the United Nations in safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Serbia, including the issue of Kosovo and Metohija, noting that the Cooperation Framework goes beyond the scope of a traditional development document. It represents an expression of shared commitment to the fundamental principles of the UN, as well as a concrete mechanism for aligning national development priorities with the global Sustainable Development Goals.

“These goals can only be meaningful within a stable, law-based international order,” the Minister stated.

The Head of Serbian diplomacy further stressed that respect for international law is not a matter of circumstance for Serbia, but a permanent and immutable principle. He noted that the document recognizes the progress Serbia has achieved through responsible economic policies, institutional strengthening, and decision-making in the long-term interest of its citizens. While acknowledging that development is not a linear process and that Serbia will face numerous challenges, he emphasized that cooperation with UN agencies and programs represents an important pillar for continued progress in line with national priorities.

Minister Đurić also pointed out that there is over 70 percent alignment between UN programs in Serbia and the reforms implemented within the EU accession process, assessing that this agreement provides additional momentum to Serbia’s European path. He recalled that Serbia’s performance in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals is above the global average, while stressing that economic growth must be accompanied by social cohesion, environmental protection, and equal opportunities for all. He expressed gratitude to the Ministry for European Integration and the UN team in Serbia, reaffirming that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains fully committed to cooperation within the joint national steering committee, with consistent respect for the territorial integrity of the Republic of Serbia, its international legal personality, and international public law.

Minister for European Integration Nemanja Starović assessed that the signing of the Cooperation Framework for the period 2026–2030 confirms the shared objective of building a greener, healthier, and more modern Serbia. He noted that over the next five years activities will focus on low-carbon and inclusive growth, investment in human capital and well-being, and the strengthening of the rule of law and accountable institutions, while adapting global goals to national priorities in order to improve the quality of life of citizens.

Reviewing previous cooperation with Serbia, UN Resident Coordinator Matilde Mordt highlighted that the country has achieved significant progress in the areas of health care, education, and poverty reduction, as well as in digital transformation. She emphasized that the new five-year cooperation framework is centered on sustainable growth, people’s well-being, and strong institutions, with increased use of digital solutions and improved data utilization, underscoring in particular its alignment with Serbia’s path toward membership in the European Union.

Ahead of the signing of the framework document, Minister Marko Đurić and UN Resident Coordinator Matilde Mordt held a meeting at which key aspects of future cooperation were discussed.