Dacic expects hectic diplomatic activity after Easter holidays

BELGRADE - Serbian FM Ivica Dacic expects hectic diplomatic activity after the Orthodox Easter holidays, including a potential trip to Strasbourg, a visit to Paris and an April 27 UN Security Council session on Kosovo-Metohija, as well as a visit to Belgrade by the Swedish FM.

Speaking to Tanjug on Saturday, Dacic said last week's visit by Spanish FM Jose Manuel Albares had been very important.

"Spain is our cornerstone of the relations and positions within the EU. Spain and Cyprus are the firmest when it comes to non-recognition of the so-called Kosovo. Spain's position is very important to us, and they have told President Vucic - and Cyprus will say the same - that they will not change their position. I hope the remaining three countries that do not recognise the so-called Kosovo will say that, too. I think that is the very reason why the Spanish minister's visit is important," Dacic said.

He said a decision on whether he would travel to Strasbourg on Tuesday, April 18, to mark the 20th anniversary of Serbia's admission to the Council of Europe was still pending.

The problem is that, at the same time, some countries are trying to launch an initiative for the so-called Kosovo to join the CoE.

"That is an issue for us because you cannot receive us and then also receive a delegation of the so-called Kosovo," Dacic said.

He also said Swedish FM Tobias Billstrom, whose country currently holds the EU presidency, would come to Belgrade on April 19.

"My visit to France and discussions with their FM will take place on April 20. She has never been to Serbia and I will insist on her visit," Dacic said.