The Regional Breakfast with the topic “Love thy neighbour”, which is one in a series of initiatives of the Republic of Serbia for regional reconciliation and deepening of relations between the countries, was attended by representatives of the US Congress, German Bundestag, European Parliament, as well as representatives of the national parliaments of the countries in the region.

National Assembly Deputy Speaker Prof. Dr Vladimir Marinkovic thanked everybody who has shown readiness, by attending the breakfast, to work on developing and expanding the relations between the states.

“This is a significant event for Serbia and the region, and its chief goal is to build bridges between the countries and peoples of the Western Balkan region, to build a new policy of reconciliation”, said Marinkovic.

He believes this to be a prerequisite for further economic development and establishment of better political and other relations.

“It is quite clear that any hint of instability in one of the Western Balkan countries could lead to serious trouble in the entire region, so it is in the interest of Serbia and all the countries in the region to keep the region stable. Today we have proved that we can spread the policy of tolerance and reconciliation”, said Marinkovic.

Minister of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs Aleksandar Vulin said that Serbia cannot be successful without a peaceful and stable Balkans and that is why Serbia strives to maintain excellent communication and relations with its neighbours.

“Our region can serve as an example of how different nations can cooperate and find common interests. That is why our attitude to the neighbours is open and amicable. We have struggled to achieve political stability and we are an example of how this leads to economic stability. We will continue to act in the same way”, said Vulin.

US Congressman Robert Aderholt said he was very pleased to be attending the Regional Prayer Breakfast, reminding everybody of the National Prayer Breakfast held in Washington D.C. in February.

“It is our objective to talk about everything that brings us together. I would also like to convey my US colleagues’ greetings”, said Aderholt.

Albanian MP Fatmir Mediu said that the time of recriminations and pointing fingers has led to no good for either side and that it is time for a change:

“We are here to discuss cooperation and prosperity of the region. We have no future unless we work together and that is why I am very glad to be in Belgrade and I would like to come back again”, said Mediu.