Erdogan: We have strong ties with Serbia, any agreement between it, Kosovo supporting

Reaching an agreement, Erdogan said, is essential in order to achieve stability gave lasting peace in the Balkans, citing this as the main reason Turkey supports the resumption of the Pristina-Belgrade dialogue, writes B92.

Erdogan stressed that relations between Turkey and Serbia are based on mutual understanding and respect.

We want to strengthen our relations and co-operation with the region in every area. Serbia has a central and strategic position in the Balkans. We have historical and cultural ties with Serbia and see it as a neighbouring country, although we do not have the common limit”, Erdogan told “Politika”.

Citing his recent visit to Serbia, he expressed much satisfaction and said Turkish businessmen' investments have grown and that interest in Turkish culture and language in Serbia has increased, Periscopi forwards B92's writing.

“We're witnessing projects that we've accomplished with my dear friend Vuciq, which makes me especially happy and shows that we're on the right track. I have no doubt that with this co-operation and strong political will on both sides, we will increase co-operation to a very high level”, the Turkish president said.

He added that his country places great importance on preserving stability in Serbia and that it supports Serbia's efforts towards economic development and the EU accession process.

“If prosperity and peace continue to move forward in Serbia, we believe it will have a positive impact throughout the region. Serbia plays an important role in preserving regional peace and regional development”, Turkey's president concluded.

Asked about the Green Transversal project, supported by several Bosnian politicians in Serbia and the region, aiming at uniting parts of Serbia with a Muslim minority within Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo, Erdogan said Turkey does not follow its Balkan policy based on religion and therefore makes no distinction between Serbs, Bosniaks, Albanians and Croats.

“We want Serbia to show unity, solidarity and peace, successfully complete European integration and become a prosperous country. However, some have been upset by our country's activities in the Balkans and strong co-operation with Serbia”, Erdogan said.

As he said, these districts are trying to manipulate Turkey's efforts and portray it differently.

Fortunately, thanks to the joint efforts made with my honored friend Vucic every day, improving our relationship, we disrupt the plans of these circuits. My advice to all is that instead of promoting conflicts in the Balkans, they should think more about creating political projects that will contribute to a better future for the Balkans “, he said.

Speaking of the declaration proclaimed by the Party of Democratic Action, which envisions Bosnia and Herzegovina's restructuring, Erdogan said Turkey supports the Dayton Agreement as a minimal compromise that currently exists for Bosnia, despite the fact that there are some shortcomings and the fact that no one in Bosnia and Herzegovina is fully satisfied with it.

“However, I have already said that if the interested parties want to improve this agreement, it should be done under the supervision of the United Nations Organisation”, Erdogan concluded. / P ERISCOPIA