Đurić: Serbia deeply committed to the values of the OSCE and the Helsinki Final Act

Following his meeting with the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Finland, Elina Valtonen, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Marko Đurić, stated today that Serbia is a country that firmly believes in the multilateral world order, the principles of international law, and the founding documents of the OSCE, as well as in the vital role of this organization in these challenging times for the European continent.

Minister Đurić underlined the reaffirmed joint commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and confidence-building in the region and beyond, recalling that this was his second meeting with his Finnish counterpart in the past year.

Reflecting on the historical significance of the Helsinki Final Act of 1975, Đurić emphasized that Serbia attaches immense importance to Finland’s efforts to revive and promote the principles enshrined in this landmark document.

“We firmly believe that respect for the principles of sovereign equality of states, the renunciation of the threat or use of force, and the peaceful settlement of disputes represent the foundation not only for preserving peace but also for achieving prosperity and progress as a whole,” Minister Đurić underscored.

He further recalled that Serbia chaired the OSCE in 2015, thereby demonstrating both its capacity and its willingness to contribute to the role of the organization.

The head of Serbian diplomacy highlighted the commitment of the Government of Serbia and state institutions to resolving all issues through democratic dialogue, in accordance with European democratic principles and standards.

With regard to the situation in Kosovo and Metohija, Minister Đurić briefed his Finnish counterpart on the difficult position of the Serbs and other non-majority communities, stressing the importance of the role played by the OSCE Mission in Kosovo and Metohija. He also called on all citizens to take part in the upcoming local elections.

“Exercising the right to vote is one of the most important democratic rights, and it is essential that everyone be enabled to exercise this right in a democratic manner,” the Minister underlined.

Minister Đurić described bilateral cooperation between Serbia and Finland as excellent in the economic, political, and other spheres. He expressed confidence that Serbia can learn much from Finland, particularly in the areas of modern education, transparency, and the fight against corruption, voicing satisfaction that this visit will contribute to the continuation of cooperation and dialogue between the two countries.

Chairperson-in-Office Valtonen emphasized that the OSCE’s activities in Serbia are aligned with the priorities defined by the Government, implemented in partnership with Serbian institutions, and that the Mission’s task is to assist Serbia in building strong, independent, accountable, and effective democratic institutions, as well as to support the work of civil society.

Speaking about the current situation in Serbia, she stressed the importance of reducing tensions and avoiding rhetoric that fuels division or confrontation. She expressed her belief that the principles of the rule of law and democracy remain the goals of the Government of Serbia and that there is a shared path forward.

The Finnish Foreign Minister also highlighted the excellent bilateral relations between the two countries, concluding: “Finland stands ready to continue this fruitful partnership.”