"President Macron presented incredible cordiality today, and he showed that he is a sincere friend of our country. It is proof of true friendship and President Macron's dedicated approach to solving the Western Balkans' problems. I am happy that President Macron understands the needs and position of Serbia. I hope and believe that we can do many things together," said President Vučić, following the meeting. He pointed out that France is our traditional friend and expressed hope that Serbia, with the help and support of President Macron, will solve some problems and increase the level of economic cooperation and trade exchange.

"We mostly talked about the relations between Belgrade and Priština. I believe that we will have the serious support of France on our European path. Additionally, we discussed the military-technical cooperation. We also talked about our bilateral relations and specific projects, the construction of the subway in Belgrade. By the end of the year, we will commence the construction works", stated President Vučić and added that it is no longer a dream and pre-election promise, but that the subway in Belgrade is becoming a reality. He emphasised the importance of Serbia's European path and pointed out that Serbia had shown its capabilities in the previous period.

President Vučić said that, following the new methodology of the EU approach, he had open talks with the President of France and that there would be a change and a different approach, precisely because Serbia was the first to accept that methodology. He expressed hope that due to the change in the balance of power globally, some other agreements would be reached that would help Serbia and the EU and faith in innovative solutions.

"I always believe in us and our strength, everything depends on us. We belong to ourselves, and the most important thing is what we can do, what our economy and politics are like, and the support of others is important in any case. I carry the Serbian flag and coat of arms in my heart, and I respect everyone else. We are the first in terms of growth rate and vaccination in Europe, and President Macron spoke about Serbia's successes. We have much work to do; arduous and hard work is ahead of us so that we can take big steps forward", said President Vučić.

President of the Republic of France Emmanuel Macron pointed out that the bilateral cooperation between Serbia and France continues, and cited the Belgrade subway construction as an example. He said that it is necessary to continue the dialogue despite the pandemic, especially with the Western Balkans.

"I particularly want to highlight the place that Serbia occupies for France," said President Macron, adding that France and the European Union want to be more present in terms of culture, education and economic investments.

"Last year, we defined a new methodology for conducting negotiations on accession to the European Union. I want to thank President Vučić, who said from the very beginning that he supports this new methodology and that we can move forward together to fulfil obligations to accelerate reforms and necessary progress in Serbia on its EU path. Together we can continue to respond to the aspirations of the people", stated President Macron and added that he wants to emphasise his support to all those who wish to improve relations between Belgrade and Priština.

"You can count on my support, and I will continue to be with you to make progress on that path, the path of normalisation of relations, but also the path that will lead to stability and peace in the region. I know that is your goal," said the French President and expressed his desire for the two countries to continue to develop economic cooperation, as well as for France to be stronger and more present and to continue investing in Serbia. At the end of his address, he thanked President Vučić for visiting Paris and for continuing to improve relations between the two countries.

Source: Presidency of Serbia

Photo: Presidency of Serbia / Dimitrije Goll

1.02.2021