UK FM hails Serbia's political, economic progress

BELGRADE, Serbia (AA) - Serbia has made huge political and economic progress, British Foreign Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday.

Johnson and Prime Minister Alexander Vucic had a working dinner during his two-day visit to Belgrade before addressing the media at a joint press conference.

"It is fascinating to see how the country has changed. Serbia has achieved great economic success and political progress," said Johnson.

He also said the United Kingdom will remain a friend of Serbia, although out of the European Union.

"This is an old friendship that is always productive," said Johnson.

Asked about Donald Trump's victory in the U.S. presidential elections, Johnson said people should be able to take advantage of the relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States.

"I think we should be positive about the possibilities. [Trump] is a person who enters into an agreement. He wants free trade," he said.

Meanwhile, Vucic focused on the importance of improving relations between Great Britain and Serbia.

"We have a chance to improve economic and security cooperation. The United Kingdom is still present here and we have a tendency to cooperate. We need the United Kingdom as a pillar of stability," said Vucic.

Johnson also met with his Serbian counterpart, Ivica Dacic, and Parliament Speaker Maja Gojkovic earlier Thursday.

A statement from the foreign ministry said the ministers agreed to strengthen political dialogue and business cooperation between their countries.

Johnson said Britain would continue to support Serbia’s accession to the EU despite the Brexit and Dacic believes relations between the two countries should be strengthened, according to the statement.

After his meeting with Gojkovic, Johnson stressed that Britain views Serbia as an important part of Europe.