In an interview with Radio Belgrade, Đurić said the opening of the two consulates would mark a step toward strengthening bilateral relations.

“I am pleased that I had productive talks with Albania’s new Foreign Minister, Ferit Hoxha, with whom we reached an agreement in principle to open our countries’ consulates in Shkodër and Bujanoc,” Đurić said.

Speaking about European integration, the Serbian foreign minister said Serbia has accelerated the implementation of reforms linked to the European Union agenda, stressing that EU membership remains a national interest for Belgrade.

According to Đurić, the majority of Serbia’s economic trade is conducted with European Union member states and countries in the region. He said it is therefore important for Serbia to be part of the EU’s decision-making processes.

Đurić also spoke about relations with the Czech Republic, describing it as an important partner for Serbia in Central Europe. He said that during a visit to Prague he met with Czech Foreign Minister Petr Maçenka, who, according to Đurić, stated that previous Czech governments had recognized Kosovo under pressure.

Regarding Kosovo, Đurić claimed that Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s government is becoming increasingly isolated on the international stage.

“The more Kurti’s regime uses violence against Serbs and against those who think differently, the more isolated it becomes within the international community. That works in our favor,” he said.

Commenting on the former General Staff building in Belgrade, the Serbian foreign minister defended Culture Minister Nikola Selaković, saying he had acted in accordance with the law and in the state’s interest. Đurić described the accusations against Selaković and other officials as a campaign directed against Serbia’s national and state interests.