Given the historical and cultural ties that Serbia has with the region, we believe that it is crucial to work on maintaining positive relations, instead of supporting anti-Serbian activities, further divisions and conflicts, said the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) regarding the announcement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister, Ervin Ibrahimović, that Montenegro will support Kosovo's application for membership in the Council of Europe.
"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia has expressed deep concern regarding the statements coming from Montenegro, in the context of support for the independence of the so-called Kosovo and active lobbying for Pristina's membership in international organizations, which is contrary to international law and the United Nations Charter, but also to good neighborly relations," the press release states.
They said that Serbia does not interfere in the foreign policy priorities of any other sovereign state, but that they believe that any priorities should not be directed against the vital interests of other states and peoples.
"It is especially dangerous if it comes from neighboring countries. And such statements certainly further exacerbate regional tensions and do not contribute to stability in this part of the Balkans. Serbia is committed to preserving peace and stability and believes that dialogue is the only way to resolve open issues. We call on all our neighbors, including Montenegro, to refrain from statements and actions that may escalate tensions and to work on strengthening mutual trust and cooperation. Given the historical and cultural ties that Serbia has with the region, we believe that it is crucial to work on maintaining positive relations, instead of supporting anti-Serbian activities, further divisions and conflicts," the statement reads.
The Serbian MFA ultimately expressed hope that all political actors in the region will responsibly focus on building a stable future for all citizens of the Balkans.
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