BELGRADE (Sputnik) — Serbia’s intention to become a full member of the European Union will not worsen its relations with Russia, and will not lead to introduction of sanctions against Moscow, Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic said Friday during a meeting with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin.
"The integration in the European Union is Serbia’s strategic determination, but it should not and would not be an obstacle for good relations with Russia, which includes non-introduction of sanctions," the Serbian president said, as quoted by his press service.
According to the press service statement, Vucic and Rogozin discussed military and technical cooperation, and agreed that partnership in various fields, in particular energy and agriculture, should be strengthened.
"President Vucic expressed gratitude for the good agreement on purchase of military equipment that will secure the necessary modernization of the Serbian Army," the statement read.
Rogozin has arrived to Belgrade to attend the inauguration ceremony of Vucic, who was elected Serbia's President in April.
Serbia formally applied for the EU membership in 2009 and was granted an EU candidate status in March 2012.
