PM: Serbia won't join sanctions against Russia

PM: Serbia won't join sanctions against Russia

BELGRADE -- Serbia recognizes Ukraine along with Crimea, but does not intend to introduce sanctions against Russia, Prime Minister Aleksandar Vučić has reiterated.

In an interview for CNN, he said Serbia wants to become "a pillar of stability and security, not only in the Balkans but in the whole of Europe," and that the country "does not wish to create new tensions and possible wars in the region."

Vučić was was interviewed as part of a program dedicated to the WW1 anniversary coming at a time of increased tensions between the West and Russia, and was introduced as prime minister of "one country that is close to both sides - a traditional ally of the Kremlin that is also looking to join the European Union."

"Actually we have our own stand, our own political stand which is not neutral. We do respect and we do support territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, including Crimea as a part of Ukraine. But you're right; we did not impose any sanctions over Russia and because of many political, economical, historical and all the other reasons. But today Serbia is a pillar of stability in the region which is very important and we hope that we'll be able to keep stable Serbia and we hope that we'll have enough trends to take care of our economical development," Vučić said.

Asked how Serbia planned to respond to pressure from the EU and Russia related to the construction of the South Stream pipeline, he said Serbia does not want tensions, but a prosperous economic future for its citizens.

"We spoke without with our European friends and as you know, I had a chance to speak to Chancellor Merkel and also to the prime minister of France, Mr. Manuel Valls...