Dacic speaks at opening of BIMUN 2024

BELGRADE - Even when they disagree, young people must always talk to each other and cooperate because that is the only possible path to a better common future, Serbian First Deputy PM and FM Ivica Dacic said at the opening of the 21st Belgrade International Model United Nations (BIMUN 2024) conference.

"We need to build bridges of cooperation on the foundations of what connects us, which is a desire for a better tomorrow. Unfortunately, it often seems to me that terms such as togetherness and solidarity are becoming increasingly pale and that we live in a world dominated by individual interests," Dacic said, noting that young people, as future leaders and decision-makers, must have an active role in shaping the present and, especially, the future, the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

That is the very reason why young people must be prepared to face future challenges, Dacic said, adding that BIMUN was contributing to a better understanding of international relations and strongly encouraged an exchange of views while maintaining a culture of dialogue needed to find compromise solutions.

Dacic said this year's conference, titled Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow: The World, the Future and Young People, highlighted the significance of active involvement of young people in promoting the work of the UN.

He noted that Serbia was known for attaching great significance to the UN and was a strong advocate of multilateralism.

"We believe that is the only way to find solutions that are sustainable over the long term, through equal participation of states, respect for diversity and coordination of the interests of all stakeholders," Dacic said.

He said Serbia was striving to contribute to the accomplishment of common goals through a constructive approach and to help strengthen peace, stability and economic progress.

Serbia has been and remains consistently committed to the goals and principles of the UN Charter and international law, Dacic also said.