Gojkovic and Naryshkin underlined the traditionally good and friendly relations between the two countries, stressing that both Serbia and the Russian Federation are committed to strengthening overall cooperation, with a special focus on interparliamentary ties.
Naryshkin said that the relations between Serbia and Russia have reached strategic levels, which the recent visit of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin to Belgrade greatly contributed to.
Gojkovic stressed that the two countries and nations historically share friendly relations and continue to show interest in cooperation, especially in the sphere of economy.
Naryshkin thanked Serbia for not joining the sanctions instituted against Russia, saying that the sanctions are a disadvantage for everyone involved.
Gojkovic said that EU membership is Serbia’s priority and that Serbia is dedicated to the integration process. She also said that Serbia has not instituted sanctions against Russia because it does not believe that is the way to address open issues.
Naryshkin and Gojkovic also discussed project South Stream. Gojkovic said she was saddened to hear that the project has fallen through. Naryshkin said that Russia had done all it could to realise the project, and the Government of the Russian Federation is discussing alternatives to ensure energy security to that part of Europe and will not leave Serbia in the lurch.
Gojkovic then addressed the deputies of the State Duma stressing that Serbia wished to continue to develop the strategic partnership with Russia. The Serbian Assembly Speaker said that though EU membership is Serbia’s priority, that commitment does not impede the continued development of brotherly relations with Russia.
“It is up to us, deputies, to maintain, cultivate and develop mutual relations”, said Gojkovic to the Russian deputies.
Gojkovic also met with the members of the Duma’s parliamentary friendship group with Serbia.