Belgrade "sending message of peace, cooperation"

Belgrade "sending message of peace, cooperation"

The significance of energy resources in the Black and the Caspian Sea region boosts the EU's interest in participating in the BSEC, of which Russia is a member, Nikolic said, adding that this might be an opportunity to establish better relations in Europe.

As a country that wants to be an EU member and have good bilateral relations with every country, Serbia will continue to strengthen its participation in the BSEC in the period to come, Nikolic said at the meeting, after which Serbia handed over the BSEC chairmanship to Turkey. First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic on Tuesday addressed the meeting, to say that "the only way to achieve sustainable and stable economic development, both in the region and beyond, is through cooperation in areas of common interest and a peaceful settlement of disputes."

"After nearly a quarter century of existence, BSEC remains an important element of regional economic connection of countries in this part of Europe. Its role is especially relevant in the context of current events in the global economic and political scene, and in the light of the security challenges which the international community is currently facing," Dacic said, according to the Serbian government, and added:

"Answering modern challenges requires cooperation, solidarity and responsible behaviour of all actors in the international community. In this regard, BSEC should confirm the leading role as carrier of sustainable and stable economic development, both in the region and beyond. In order to achieve and maintain this objective, the role of our member states is crucial. The Republic of Serbia is constantly emphasizing that cooperation in areas of common interest and a peaceful settlement of disputes is the only way to achieve that aim."

"I think it is unnecessary to emphasize the strategic, infrastructural and economic importance of the Black Sea region. The fact is that this region has huge potential. What we need to discuss is how to use this potential for the benefit of the countries of the region and their citizens, as well as how to contribute to the objectives of global importance, and here I mean first and foremost the realization of sustainable development goals of the UN to 2030," Dacic said.