Serbian role in W. Balkans important: German FM

BELGRADE, Serbia (AA) - German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel on Wednesday said that Serbia alone cannot bring stability in the region, although it has an important role to play.

Gabriel's remarks came during his official visit to Serbia's capital Belgrade where he met President Aleksandar Vucic.

Speaking to reporters, Gabriel said: "The role of Serbia in the Balkans is very important. Serbia alone cannot bring stability, but without Serbia there will be no stability."

Referring to the EU's Western Balkans Strategy, Gabriel said Serbia should demonstrate the usefulness of EU membership to its people.

The EU published a new strategy for the region last week, which held out the prospect that Serbia and Montenegro could “potentially” be ready to join the bloc by 2025.

On the dialogue process between Serbia and Kosovo, formerly part of Serbia, Gabriel said the Serbian side is willing to find a solution.

He said a solution should be worked out not because the EU demands it, but for the betterment of citizens.

Gabriel also met Prime Minister Ana Brnabic during the visit.