Telephone conversation with the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

They agreed that to this end - cooperation and coordination of measures between the Western Balkans and the European Union are necessary. President Vučić told High Representative Borell that we are counting on the EU assistance in the fight against the disease, as well as in eliminating its economic consequences. 

 

In this regard, the conversation was dominated by two key topics. The first was how to help Serbia economically after the coronavirus crisis, and President Vučić said that we hope we will have the same treatment as member states as well as the access to different EU funds, which would help the Serbian economy recover. The second topic was the procurement of medical equipment and supplies to combat COVID-19. 

 

President Vučić welcomed the decision of the European Commission to form emergency stocks of medical equipment and materials worth EUR 50 million, which will also be available to Serbia through the Civil Protection Mechanism. 

 

High Representative Borell said the European Union is doing all it can to help Serbia, especially in the procurement of medical equipment. He briefed the Serbian President that the European institutions are preparing the option for the countries in the process of accession negotiations with the EU to have access to the EU Solidarity Fund, which is now available in case of public health crises, not just natural disasters, such as was the case earlier. 

 

President Vučić and head of European Diplomacy Borell also discussed the regional situation and relations between Belgrade and Priština. 

 

Belgrade,

20th March 2020