President Vučić spoke via video link with the Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany Angela Merkel

President Aleksandar Vučić and German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed numerous issues and challenges imposed by the global crisis caused by the COVID-19 infectious disease pandemic. President Vučić notified Chancellor Merkel about the packages of measures that Serbia has adopted to mitigate the economic consequences, but also about all the health, epidemiological and other efforts that the state of Serbia has invested in combating this disease and remedying the consequences for the health of the population. The interlocutors exchanged opinions and views regarding vaccines, as well as about additional measures and further plans for preserving the health of people and the economy.

 

President Vučić and Chancellor Merkel also expressed satisfaction with the constant progress of the political dialogue and economic cooperation between Serbia and Germany.

 

"The economy is a strong link between our two countries," the German Chancellor pointed out and welcomed Serbia's progress in the field of economy, as well as its efforts on the European path, emphasising that dialogue with Priština and the rule of law are crucial.

 

President Vučić reiterated that German companies operating in our country employ more than 67,000 workers and that they significantly contribute to the economic development of Serbia, as well as to the reputation of our country as a safe place for investments.

 

"We are grateful for Germany's support of the Serbian economy. Germany is our biggest trading partner even during the global crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. German companies are increasingly interested in investing in our country, and I am proud to point out that Serbia will have the highest growth in Europe this year, despite all the current challenges," said President Vučić.

 

The President also thanked Chancellor Merkel for Germany's continuous support for Serbia's European integration, especially having in mind the German presidency of the EU. He pointed out that reforms in the area of the rule of law are of crucial importance on Serbia's European path, and emphasised that cooperation with Germany and EU institutions is a good way to continue improving this area.

 

The President also stressed the need for a clear plan for EU enlargement and a time frame for membership, as the European integration process of the Western Balkans is essential for peace and stability in the region.

 

In that context, the President and the Chancellor also discussed the continuation of the dialogue between Belgrade and Priština. They agreed that talks were necessary and that maintaining peace was crucial for both sides. President Vučić stated that he would take all the steps required to successfully continue this dialogue to achieve a constructive and open atmosphere for negotiations.

 

The Federal Chancellor welcomed Serbia's readiness for further work on preserving the stability of the region and reiterated that Germany would remain a reliable partner of Serbia on the path of reforms and European integration.

 

Belgrade,

3rd December 2020