U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Richard R. Verma held high-level meetings with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, Foreign Minister Marko Djuric, and other senior officials during his visit to Belgrade on January 11, 2025. The discussions underscored the United States’ continued commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic cooperation with Serbia while emphasizing shared goals of regional stability and European integration.
Focus on Regional Stability and Cooperation
Deputy Secretary Verma highlighted the importance of Serbia’s role in ensuring peace and stability in the Balkans and broader Europe, including addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The dialogue reinforced the need for diplomatic collaboration in mitigating security risks and promoting long-term stability across the region.
Verma commended Serbia’s efforts in contributing to regional de-escalation efforts and reiterated U.S. support for diplomatic solutions to ongoing tensions in the Western Balkans.
Economic Partnership and Energy Cooperation
A significant portion of the talks focused on expanding the U.S.-Serbia economic partnership, with particular emphasis on sectors such as energy, telecommunications, and technology. The U.S. has shown growing interest in collaborating with Serbia to enhance energy security, particularly in renewable energy projects and diversification of supply chains.
Telecommunications and tech investments were also discussed, with both sides recognizing the importance of digital transformation and infrastructure modernization as key drivers for economic growth and bilateral collaboration.
Support for Serbia’s EU Accession Goals
Deputy Secretary Verma reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to supporting Serbia’s aspirations for European Union membership. He encouraged continued progress on democratic reforms, judicial independence, media freedom, and human rights—factors critical to Serbia’s EU accession process.
The meeting reflected the Biden administration’s ongoing strategy of supporting European integration for Western Balkan nations while fostering closer U.S.-Serbian ties based on mutual respect and cooperation.
Looking Ahead
The discussions in Belgrade marked another step in strengthening diplomatic relations between the United States and Serbia. Both sides expressed optimism about continued collaboration on economic development, regional security, and Serbia’s European integration efforts.
Deputy Secretary Verma’s visit aligns with broader U.S. efforts to promote stability and prosperity in Southeast Europe through strategic partnerships and shared democratic values.