Vucic to new Ukrainian ambassador: Serbia respects territorial integrity

Tanjug/Rade Prelić

President Aleksandar Vucic told Ukraine’s new Ambassador Volodimir Tolkach that Serbia respects his country’s territorial integrity and appreciates official Kyiv’s respect for Serbia’s territorial integrity.

A press release quoted Vucic as expressing true regret over the situation in Ukraine and adding that Serbia is being subjected to the unprincipled stand of some countries in tems of the unilaterally declared independence of Kosovo. Vucic received the new ambassadors credentials at a ceremony in Belgrade.

Vucic said that Serbia secured the best possible conditions for refugees from Ukraine including residence and work permits in line with the rules of the European Union and added that he and Ambassador Tolkach will visit those refugees soon. According to the press release, the president said that Serbia will take part in the restoration of the cities destroyed in Ukraine.

It quoted Vucic as saying that Serbia advocates the peaceful resolution of disputes and supports every effort to negotiate.

The press release said that Ambassador Tolkach expressed gratitude for the humanitarian aid Serbia provided for Ukrainian civilians and for financial aid.

It made no mention of sanctions against Russia.