Đurić confers with Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem

Minister Đurić expressed his great honor at having the opportunity to engage in talks with Patriarch Theophilos III in the Holy City of Jerusalem, conveying the greetings of His Holiness Serbian Patriarch Porfirije to His Beatitude.

He expressed gratitude for the understanding and support that Patriarch Theophilos III extends to the Serbian people, while also thanking the Patriarchate of Jerusalem for its efforts in safeguarding all Christian communities, their members, and sacred sites.

Minister Đurić recalled the historical presence of Serbs among pilgrims and noted that Serbian monarchs had been benefactors and patrons of churches in the Holy Land. He highlighted the special significance of the Monastery of the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel in the Old City, parts of which were restored and built by King Milutin.

Updating his host on the situation of the Serbian Orthodox Church, its clergy, and believers in Kosovo and Metohija, Minister Đurić voiced deep concern over the fact that, in the past 20 years, approximately 150 churches, monasteries, and other religious sites have been destroyed, damaged, or desecrated in the province. He also emphasized that four Serbian medieval sacred sites in Kosovo and Metohija are listed as UNESCO World Heritage in Danger.

Minister Đurić expressed his shared concern over the difficult position of Christians in the Middle East, which has been further exacerbated by the ongoing conflict. He reaffirmed the readiness of the Serbian people and the Republic of Serbia to provide any necessary assistance, adding that lasting peace in the region can be achieved through dialogue among the Abrahamic peoples – Jews, Christians, and Muslims.