Cooperation with Russia "won't have undesired consequences"

Cooperation with Russia "won't have undesired consequences"

"Our army can respond to all security challenges, regardless of whether this is about Kosovo and Metohija, the Ground Safety Zone, terrorism, or a mass influx of refugees. Moreover, the army has undertaken a number of tasks to arrange refugee camps and reception centers," said Gasic.

Asked whether "EU's claims are true that an upcoming military exercise with Russia will be a mistake - one that could produce undesired foreign-policy consequences," the minister said:

"We don't expect that to happen. We will have as many as 127 joint activities with the U.S. this year. In the past two years we a step forward with Russia of the kind not seen before. We are turned toward all four pillars of Serbia's foreign policy, but our most important interest is that of our state and our army. We want every partnership, assistance and exchange of experiences, but we are a neutral military force and will remain that way."

Gasic noted there were "promises from Russia" that two Mi-17B5 helicopters will be delivered to the Serbian Air Force by the end of the year and will cost EUR 25.3 million. He also spoke about a plan to start repairing nine MiG-21 jets next year, "so we can have a respectable squadron of fighter aviation by 2015."

"Airbus also wants wider cooperation. This company is interested in modernizing Super Galeb G4s by modernizing the first in Germany, and the remaining eight in the Moma Stanojlovic Institute (in Serbia)," said Gasic.

But the minister revealed that Serbia has "for the time being" given up on the idea of buying new warplanes, and will consider buying "only what is necessary without taking out new loans."