President Vučić Secures Strategic French Support for Serbia’s European Future
The French President, Emmanuel Macron, hosted Serbia's president, Aleksandar Vučić, for a private working luncheon in Paris on Wednesday. This meeting comes as Vučić faces increasing domestic political challenges.
Initially, the Élysée provided no formal statement regarding the meeting, nor did they disclose the subjects that were addressed.
However, several hours afterward, Macron utilized the social media platform X to highlight the main points from their extensive discussion.
"I initially emphasized the significance that France places on Serbia’s democratic and European future," Macron stated.
He showed faith in Serbia’s capability to "get back on the track of dialogue," and urged the upcoming administration to work towards "the anticipated reforms" and expand upon the nation's recent advancements in economics.
The visit takes place as large-scale demonstrations against the government unfold in Serbia. The protesters allege that the administration has engaged in corrupt practices and violent acts.
In the meantime, approximately 100 Serbian students are presently biking to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, with plans to reach their destination early next week. Their aim is to bring attention to the circumstances in their home country among EU officials.
A lot of Serbian students believe they have not gotten sufficient backing from the European Union, even though they receive substantial support domestically.
The demonstrations began following the deaths of 16 individuals due to a catastrophic train station roof collapse in November.
The incident was attributed to widespread corruption, and this has highlighted broader dissatisfaction with Vučić's governance in Serbia.
Substantial economic benefits for France
Regardless of the political instability, France maintains significant economic interests in Serbia.
Last summer, Belgrade bought 12 French Rafale fighter planes for a mere €3 billion.
On Wednesday, Vučić told journalists that Serbia plans to make its second payment of over €400 million on Thursday.
Macron’s announcement on social media also verified France's involvement in the 2027 Expo in Belgrade, which clearly demonstrated backing for Vučić.
France is similarly engaged in various infrastructure and energy initiatives within Serbia. The firm Vinci manages Belgrade’s airport, while Michelin produces tires domestically. Additionally, discussions include potential French assistance in constructing nuclear power facilities for Serbia.
An additional major topic discussed on Wednesday was Donald Trump's tariffs.
Serbia has faced the most significant impact in the area with tariff rates of 34%, which exceed the 20% imposed on the European Union, putting strain on French entities involved.
Stability in the region up for discussion
Macron said that during their discussion they addressed issues related to Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing France’s "steadfast backing for the unity of this nation" and denouncing any activities that could jeopardize its established governmental structure.
Tensions have risen significantly after last month's conviction of Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik, who is a key political associate of Vučić.
Dodik received a one-year jail term and was barred from holding public office for six years by the State Court after he declined to acknowledge the rulings made by the international High Representative who oversees the peace accord in this fragmented Balkan nation.
The French leader similarly emphasized France’s dedication to facilitating normalized relations between Serbia and Kosovo, describing it as "a crucial prerequisite" for both nations' ambitions regarding European Union membership.
Belgrade does not acknowledge Pristina’s sovereignty, despite Pristina declaring independence in 2008. Various efforts led from Brussels aimed at reconciliation and discussion have been unsuccessful over the past few years.
