Vučić: Türkiye Is a Key Strategic Partner for Serbia

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić underlined the strategic value of relations with Türkiye following talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara, saying that while Serbia is a smaller country, Türkiye remains an indispensable partner for Belgrade.

High-Level Talks in Ankara

Speaking at a joint press conference at the Presidential Complex after bilateral and inter-delegation meetings, Vučić said discussions were held in a “very open and friendly” atmosphere, reflecting the long-standing ties between the two countries. He noted that mutual respect defined the talks and said he was highly satisfied with the outcomes.

Vučić praised President Erdoğan’s leadership, describing him as a figure of influence not only in Türkiye and the region, but also globally. He emphasized that the conclusions reached during the meetings carried significant political and strategic weight.

Trade and Economic Cooperation

Recalling earlier skepticism about boosting bilateral trade to $5 billion, Vučić said the volume has already reached $3.5 billion. He acknowledged that setting ambitious targets had proven to be an effective approach and credited President Erdoğan for pushing that vision forward.

Vučić stressed that Türkiye plays a critical role for Serbia across multiple fields, including politics, the economy, the military and the defense industry. He said Serbia is fully aware of Türkiye’s broad influence and capacity.

Turkish Investments and Infrastructure Projects

The Serbian president highlighted Turkish investments in Serbia, particularly in less-developed regions, noting that their contribution to employment and economic opportunity is not always widely recognized domestically.

He pointed to major infrastructure projects undertaken by Turkish companies, including highway construction and the Belgrade–Niš railway line. Vučić also said Turkish firms won the tender for the Sofia–Budapest connectivity project, which he described as vital for business, tourism and regional integration.

Future Visits and Regional Initiatives

Vučić said Serbia hopes to host President Erdoğan for a major visit, during which projects in Kraljevo, the Sandžak region, Novi Pazar and Jarinje would be advanced. He added that Türkiye’s decision to participate in Serbia’s EXPO 2027 was of great importance and expressed gratitude to Erdoğan and his foreign policy team.

He also voiced strong support for Erdoğan’s Balkan Peace Platform initiative, saying regional dialogue is essential for stability. Vučić noted that Erdoğan’s experience and wisdom make him a key figure in fostering peace across the Balkans.

Security and Defense Cooperation

For the first time, Vučić said the two sides discussed cooperation in military and technical fields, including coordination between their armed forces. He expressed confidence that deeper cooperation could help preserve peace and contribute to a more secure future for all nations in the region.

Concluding his remarks, Vučić thanked President Erdoğan for his hospitality and said Serbia looks forward to welcoming him with the same warmth during his next visit.