Đurić: I Am Confident That Significant Results Lie Ahead for Serbia and the United States

Addressing the reception as a guest of honor, organized by the Embassy of the United States in Belgrade, the Serbian Foreign Minister reflected on the years he spent in Washington with his family while serving as ambassador, working to strengthen ties between the two countries.

“During that period, as a Serb with a deep appreciation for history, I regularly—almost every month—visited Mount Vernon, the estate and home of George Washington, as well as Alexandria, Gettysburg, and many other historic sites,” the Minister noted, adding that he had visited a total of 26 states.

In that context, Đurić emphasized that there are striking parallels between Serbian history at the beginning of the 19th century and American history at the end of the 18th century.

“I am particularly fond of drawing comparisons between General Washington and our leader Karađorđe, as both were outstanding military commanders and both, from the very outset, were engaged in building their nations and institutions. When I reflect on General Washington’s path and key battles—from Bunker Hill, Lexington, Concord, to Yorktown—and compare them with our own struggles in Serbia for independence and the restoration of statehood, I recognize the same spirit—the same spirit of freedom, the same spirit of a people striving to govern their own destiny, to have a government of the people, by the people, and for the people,” Đurić underlined.

He expressed confidence that, in today’s context, Serbia and the United States have many reasons to work together.

“We recall that we stood on the same side in both World Wars, that diplomatic relations were established in 1881, and that the first American envoy, Eugene Schuyler, resided at a house on Francuska Street, where our literary society is still located today. All of this is deeply intertwined with the history of Belgrade,” Đurić said.

However, as he stressed, much work remains to be done for the future.

“Over the past year, Serbia has had the honor of being hosted on several occasions by representatives of the administration of Donald Trump. President Aleksandar Vučić has instructed us to intensify efforts to advance cooperation across all areas, and I am confident that noteworthy results lie ahead,” Đurić concluded.

He also expressed satisfaction that Belgrade is hosting such a distinguished cultural event and voiced hope that many more will follow, as the city seeks to welcome leading international artists.

“In the future, we will also work towards bringing an NBA team to Belgrade, which I believe will be very well received. Although I do not have a glass in hand, I raise a toast—to Serbia, to America, and to our friendship and partnership in the years ahead,” Minister Đurić stated.