Belgrade, 26 April 2022

Prime Minister Ana Brnabic talked today with US Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Asia Karen Donfried about bilateral cooperation between the two countries, dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, regional cooperation and the European integration process.

The Prime Minister pointed out that the process of European integration and the preservation of regional peace and stability are of key importance for the Republic of Serbia, and that peace and stability are essential for the future of the Western Balkans.

Speaking about the importance of regional cooperation, Brnabic pointed out the Open Balkans initiative as a good example of connecting all citizens of the region, especially young people.

Serbia is committed to continuing reforms in the area of the rule of law, and the most important part of that work was done by adopting constitutional amendments in January this year, which is a precondition for strengthening the independence and autonomy of judges and prosecutors, Brnabic said.

The Prime Minister added that the government is committed to continuing the dialogue and open communication with civil society organisations and media representatives.

US Assistant Secretary of State Karen Donfried congratulated Serbia on its good economic results. It was concluded that further strengthening and improvement of economic cooperation is important for both sides, as well as that American companies and investments are important for Serbia, especially in the field of IT and new technologies.

Brnabic and Donfried also discussed the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.

The Prime Minister emphasised in the conversation that Serbia is open and ready to continue the dialogue and reminded that Pristina has still not done anything on the formation of the Community of Serbian Municipalities, which was agreed by the Brussels Agreement nine years ago.

In the conversation, Brnabic pointed out the good cooperation and communication with KFOR, which is especially important for Serbs living in Kosovo and Metohija.

Donfried said that the United States supports the continuation of the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina. She also added that the United States strongly supports the region's European integration process.

Brnabic and Donfried also discussed current geopolitical topics.