Britain and Serbia have a long history of international relations. Historically, what are the key points of this cooperation?

Last year marked the 175th anniversary of the establishment of a British consulate in Belgrade, in 1837. Over that long period, relations between the two countries were, by and large, good and their historical alliance was the hallmark of these relations. Since the year 2000 they have been on the rise, characterized by constant British support for our European aspirations. In the last year, after the new Serbian Government was formed, there has been a dynamic and meaningful political dialogue going on, which is proof that their bilateral relations have been improving.

When comparing diplomatic and economic relations, do you agree with the assessment that political cooperation has always been more developed than the economic one?

Unfortunately, that is true. Nevertheless, I must say that I am an optimist in that respect: as Serbia progresses towards its main political goal, which is membership of the European Union, their relations in the field of economy will inevitably be strengthened. Serbia has numerous comparative advantages for attracting foreign investors and the Government has taken a number of measures to make Serbia more attractive for foreign investment, such as the resolute fight against corruption, simplification of procedures and reduction of dues and taxes. In the absence of foreign investments, there will be no rapid recovery of the Serbian economy, and this is a very strong reason why Serbia has no other options but to become a credible country with fewer obstacles for those wishing to invest in it. As far as I know, there is a potential interest for agriculture, small and medium-sized enterprises in the IT sector and spa tourism, among British investors. I am also hopeful for the other economic sectors.

How do you evaluate the effects of the recent visit by British Foreign Secretary William Hague to Serbia?

I can assess this visit as very successful, because during the talks with the British Foreign Secretary and the Serbian top leadership, we received the words of praise, support and encouragement. Secretary Hague said that Serbia had demonstrated full responsibility and seriousness, and that his assessment was optimistic about our expectations from the European Council at the end of June. Furthermore, he welcomed the progress made in the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina, and called for an effective implementation of the Brussels Agreement. He explained the British position and said that Serbia would achieve progress towards a date for the opening of negotiations if concrete, visible results were achieved in the implementation of what was agreed. Very importantly, he stressed that Serbia would not be faced with any new conditions in this regard.

How do you expect future cooperation between the two countries to develop?

With Serbia's progress in the European integration process, promotion of bilateral relations in all areas, especially in the economic field, through greater presence of British investors is likely. Naturally, relations in areas where we already have a developed cooperation will definitely be deepened.

Is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs involved in establishing contacts between business people from Serbia and Britain?

By far, the busiest activity in this area is carried out by our London Embassy which participates in the organization of events aimed at presenting Serbia's investment potential. On the other hand, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is supportive of activities and closely cooperates with the other departments responsible for the development of economic relations.

How important to Serbia is the support of Great Britain in European integration?

Bearing in mind the specific position and the very strong influence of the United Kingdom in the European Union, I can say that the support we are given from London is very important and stimulating in the implementation of the priorities of our foreign policy.

In which other areas is cooperation with Britain crucial?

Very successful cooperation has been maintained in the fields of defence and police, as reaffirmed by both sides. This is particularly important having in mind many challenges facing the present-day world involving mainly security, terrorism, organized crime, focal points of crisis, etc. In the field of defence, of particular significance is the sharing of experience regarding participation in peace operations, given the engagement of British troops in this segment all over the world. I would single out also their support for the reform and modernization of the Serbian Army, and the training and specialization of Serbian military officers in the United Kingdom.

In the field of police cooperation, the Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs has had, in the past few years, close cooperation with the British SOCA (Serious Organized Crime Agency). We appreciate the British support provided through projects to reform the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Of no less significance is cooperation in education where more than a thousand Serbian students went to Britain in the past period, to study there. These students will have the opportunity to successfully apply the knowledge acquired there to the benefit of the educational and economic development of the Republic of Serbia, considering the tradition, quality and standards of the British education system.