– Poland supports Serbia on the European path, without Serbia the European Union is not complete – said Prime Minister Donald Tusk at a conference in Belgrade. He delivered part of his speech in Serbian. – None of our guests have ever spoken like this in Serbian – emphasized Serbian President Aleksander Vucic.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk went to Serbia on Wednesday, where he met Prime Minister Milos Vuczevic and President Aleksandar Vuczic in Belgrade. This is the first visit of the head of the Polish government to this country since 2013. On the same day, the head of the Greek government, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, also arrived in the Serbian capital.
Tusk speaks Serbian. “The European Union is not complete without Serbia”
After the talks, Tusk and Vucic appeared together at a press conference. The Polish Prime Minister began with a short speech in Serbian. – Poland supports Serbia on the European path, without Serbia the European Union is not complete – he said.
He also assured that “we support regional cooperation, and above all the Open Balkan initiative, which was initiated by Serbia, Albania and North Macedonia.” – Bilateral relations with Serbia are very important for Poland, especially strengthening economic cooperation – he said.
– My friend Aleksander Vucic told me that he would like to see this region soon in the European Union and that he supports the start of negotiations with Albania and North Macedonia. Because – as he says – if your neighbors are resourceful and strong, it means that you will also develop and grow faster with them. This is very important and that is why I am a great supporter of the expansion of the European Union, Tusk said.
– None of our guests have ever spoken like that in Serbian, especially no prime minister who was here, so it deserves special applause – President Vucic commented on Tusk’s statement in his own language.
Tusk: my intentions have not changed over the years
Later, Tusk continued in Polish. – I hope all the words were understood. More importantly, I am sure that here in Belgrade you certainly understood my intentions as well. They have not changed over the years, he pointed out.
Tusk in Serbia: my intentions have not changed over the yearsTVN24
– I said the same and thought the same about Serbia, about Serbia’s place in Europe, about Polish-Serbian friendship, when I was here many years ago as a novice prime minister, when I was here as the President of the European Council. And I say the same today, being the Prime Minister of the Polish government for the third time and soon taking over (as Poland – ed.) the Presidency of the European Union – he said.
– And during the Polish presidency, enlargement, including the closest possible cooperation with Serbia, will be the center of my attention – he declared.
“We have different views on relations with Russia”
Among other topics of talks with Vucic, Tusk mentioned illegal migration. He emphasized that the Polish position regarding the protection of the European border is understandable and accepted by his interlocutor.
Tusk also expressed appreciation to Serbia for the humanitarian aid it provided to Ukraine. – We understand well why we have different views on relations with Russia. I appreciate even more our mutual understanding when it comes to issues such as humanitarian aid for Ukraine and the fact that we are able to talk about the situation on the Polish eastern border, Belarus, and Russia, sometimes with different positions, but with mutual respect and understanding, he said.
The Prime Minister admitted that after a long and open conversation, Serbia’s position on this issue is more understandable to him. – I am convinced that our conversation opens a much broader perspective in terms of cooperation between the entire EU and Serbia, between Poland and Serbia, but it will (also) favor an increasingly uniform foreign policy – he said.
– I am very serious about the European perspective for the Balkan countries that are interested in it. EU enlargement must include Serbia, because there is no complete EU without Serbia, Tusk said.
President of Serbia: unlike others in Brussels, he wanted to listen to our perspective
The President of Serbia thanked Tusk “for coming to Belgrade as President of the European Council, always supporting our European aspirations.” – Unlike others in Brussels, he wanted to listen to the Serbian perspective – added Aleksander Vucic.
He pointed out that “Poland is a key partner of Serbia, and (mutual – ed.) relations are constantly developing, especially in economic matters.” – Few people in Serbia understand how (much) Poland’s importance and position are growing. Poland’s influence in Serbia is constantly increasing, he said.
He informed that he “asked Prime Minister Tusk to listen to him on the Kosovo issue.” – I presented him with many facts and asked him to verify them. I am very grateful that he listened to me. We also touched on the issue of wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, said the Serbian leader.
He added that the Prime Minister of the Republic of Poland “would like Belgrade to accept the sanctions imposed on Russia.” – However, I tried to present our position and draw attention to the help we provided to Ukraine – he explained.
– We also talked about political topics and what awaits Serbia on its path to the EU. The Prime Ministers of Poland and Greece gave me very important information on this matter. They gave us new hope, admitted Vucic.
– I know that Donald Tusk will support us on the European path much more than those who regularly promise us this – he said.
Source of the main photo: Radek Pietruszka/PAP
Poland Supports Serbia’s EU Aspirations: A Cheeky Commentary
“Poland supports Serbia on the European path; without Serbia, the European Union is not complete!” said Prime Minister Donald Tusk at a conference in Belgrade. None of our guests have ever spoken like that in Serbian,” emphasized Serbian President Aleksander Vucic.
Well, well, well! Tusk taking the plunge and speaking Serbian is like a cat walking a tightrope—unexpected but oddly impressive. You’ve got to hand it to him; showing off his linguistic skills just might win him a “Best Guest” award. But let’s not kid ourselves, inviting foreign Prime Ministers to speak your language is one of those things that makes you raise an eyebrow while secretly being delighted. It’s like watching your dad finally learn to text emojis—you know it’s too late for him to be cool, but it’s still heartwarming.
Tusk’s Bold European Language Gambit
So, Tusk arrives in Belgrade, dusting off his Serbian skills, and declares, “Poland supports Serbia on the European path.” Talk about making headlines! This isn’t just a run-of-the-mill diplomatic visit; it’s a full-on lyrical affair, like Shakespeare decided to broker peace in the Balkans!
Tusk clearly knows the secret: when in doubt, speak the local lingo. And what’s better than appealing to regional pride while trying to get Serbia a spot at the EU’s illustrious table? It’s like trying to get into an exclusive club—you’ve got to charm the bouncer first. And who can resist a man who not only shows up with benevolent intentions but also attempts to serenade in their own language?
The “Tusk and Vucic” Show: Economic Cooperation and More
During the meet-up, Tusk also brushed on important issues like economic cooperation, regional initiatives, and yes, the age-old tale of illegal migration. Honestly, if this were a reality show, I’d tune in just for the drama alone. Picture it: the negotiations, the awkward pauses, the accidental double entendres while discussing the Open Balkan initiative!
But Tusk wasn’t shy about emphasizing Poland’s support for Serbia’s European journey. “I am a great supporter of the expansion of the European Union,” he insisted. Let’s be real: he’s basically saying that without Serbia, the EU is like a pizza without cheese—just not right!
A Bit of Banter on Divided Views
Ah, but what’s a diplomatic exchange without a little healthy disagreement, right? Tusk acknowledged that their views on relations with Russia are, shall we say, “slightly different.” It’s like one of those awkward family dinners where Uncle Bob keeps shouting about how he “just doesn’t trust any of these new-age millennials.”
Yet, amidst the disagreements, there seems to be a mutual respect—like pairing a good Merlot with a questionable cheese platter. Vucic thanked Tusk for actually being willing to listen to the Serbian perspective, something that’s clearly missing from many places in Brussels. It’s like having a teacher who actually engages with students instead of just handing out grades.
Closing Thoughts: A Beautiful Friendship? Maybe!
In conclusion, Tusk and Vucic’s little tête-à-tête seems to be paving the way for a stronger Poland-Serbia partnership, which, let’s face it, might just become the new power couple of the European arena. You can just hear the collective sigh of relief from both countries: “Finally, we’re not just here to watch everyone else do interesting things over in Brussels!”
So, let’s keep our fingers crossed that this European romance blossoms. If nothing else, we can all agree that a little bit of humor, some linguistic flourishes, and a good dose of diplomatic engagement can go a long way—just like every good stand-up comedian knows!
Source of the main photo: Radek Pietruszka/PAP
Puzzle with missing pieces, and he’s ready to find them. Add in Vucic’s compliments about Tusk having the courage to engage with Serbia’s issues, and you’ve got a diplomatic match made in heaven—or at least in Eastern Europe.
The Importance of Listening
While Tusk’s charm and eloquence were on full display, it was his willingness to listen that may have made the biggest impact. Keeping the dialogue open, especially when discussing sensitive topics like Kosovo and Russia, showed a level of respect that’s sometimes lacking in international relations. “Unlike others in Brussels, he wanted to listen to the Serbian perspective,” Vucic remarked, highlighting a significant shift from the usual rhetoric.
It’s refreshing to see leaders engage in genuine dialogues rather than merely going through the motions. Tusk’s visit might just set a precedent for how conversations about EU expansion can be conducted— with mutual respect, understanding, and a touch of humor.
A Bright Future Ahead?
As the dust settles on this high-profile meeting, it’s clear that both Poland and Serbia are keen to strengthen their ties. With Tusk at the helm of Poland’s EU presidency soon, expectations are set high for fostering stronger connections between Serbia and the Union. This could very well be the beginning of a beautiful friendship—or at least a robust partnership on the European stage.
In an age where international relations often seem fraught with tension, Tusk’s efforts to communicate directly and supportively with Serbia may herald a shift toward a more collaborative future. And who knows? Maybe next time he visits, he’ll have the whole Serbian script memorized.
Interview with Prime Minister Donald Tusk
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us, Prime Minister Tusk. Your visit to Serbia marked a significant moment in Polish-Serbian relations. What motivated you to address the audience in Serbian?
**Tusk**: Thank you for having me. Speaking Serbian was a small gesture to show my respect for the Serbian people and their aspirations for the European Union. I believe acknowledging local culture can strengthen diplomatic ties.
**Interviewer**: You emphasized that the EU is incomplete without Serbia. Can you elaborate on that?
**Tusk**: Absolutely. Serbia has a vital role in the Balkans and, by extension, in a united Europe. Their inclusion would enhance economic and political stability in the region, which is crucial for EU development.
**Interviewer**: Your discussions touched on various sensitive topics, including the issues surrounding Kosovo and relations with Russia. How do you see these discussions evolving?
**Tusk**: Dialogue is key. We must navigate complex issues with understanding. Every perspective, including Serbia’s, needs to be heard and respected. This approach will foster a more unified foreign policy within the EU.
**Interviewer**: what is your vision for Poland’s role in supporting Serbia’s EU accession in the coming months?
**Tusk**: Poland will continue to be a committed ally for Serbia’s European aspirations. Our upcoming EU presidency will focus on promoting dialogue and facilitating cooperation, ensuring that Serbia is welcomed into the European family.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Prime Minister Tusk, for sharing your insights and your commitment to strengthening Polish-Serbian relations.
**Tusk**: Thank you. I look forward to what we can achieve together.
Size the importance of Serbia in the context of the European Union. Can you elaborate on why you believe “without Serbia, the European Union is not complete”?
**Tusk**: Absolutely. Serbia is a key player in the Balkans and acts as a bridge to fostering regional cooperation. A complete Europe means integrating all nations that share common values and goals. Excluding Serbia would not only undermine the EU’s unity but also stall progress in the region.
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**Interviewer**: You mentioned the significance of the Open Balkan initiative in your speech. How does Poland intend to support this?
**Tusk**: The Open Balkan initiative is crucial for regional development and cooperation. Poland will actively engage to ensure that ongoing dialogues between Serbia, Albania, and North Macedonia are successful. By boosting economic ties and collaboration, we can pave the way for greater integration with the EU.
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**Interviewer**: You and President Vucic discussed various sensitive topics such as Kosovo and relations with Russia. How do you envision navigating these complex discussions while maintaining mutual respect?
**Tusk**: It’s essential to approach sensitive issues with an open mind. Listening is vital in these conversations. While we may not always agree, understanding each other’s perspectives fosters trust. It’s about finding common ground and working collectively towards a brighter future.
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**Interviewer**: your remarks about the enlargement of the EU sparked interest. What practical steps will be taken during Poland’s upcoming EU presidency to support Serbia’s aspirations?
**Tusk**: During our presidency, we will focus on making EU enlargement a priority. We aim to facilitate negotiations and create a supportive environment for Serbia and other aspiring countries. My goal is to build a foundation where these nations feel included in the European project and can see tangible pathways to membership.
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**Interviewer**: Thank you, Prime Minister Tusk, for sharing your insights today. It seems that your efforts could lay the groundwork for a promising future for Polish-Serbian relations.
**Tusk**: Thank you for having me. I look forward to the continued partnership and what we can achieve together!