Serbian National Assembly Elects New Government Under Djuro Macut
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Synopsis
On April 17, the National Assembly of Serbia appointed Djuro Macut as the head of the new government, focusing on key priorities like domestic stability and strategic foreign policy. Macut emphasized the importance of youth engagement and the Kosovo matter as national priorities.
Key Takeaways
- New government led by Djuro Macut.
- Focus on domestic stability and strategic foreign policy.
- Commitment to youth engagement through a new council.
- Emphasis on Serbia's independence in EU relations.
- Importance of the Kosovo issue as a national priority.
Belgrade, April 17 (NationPress) The National Assembly of Serbia has appointed a new government under the leadership of Djuro Macut, an endocrinologist.
A total of 153 parliamentary members expressed their support on Wednesday, 46 voted against, while 51 lawmakers were absent from the session.
The newly formed Cabinet will include 31 members, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Macut introduced his government's agenda and cabinet composition during the initial day of the special National Assembly session, highlighting the primary objectives of his administration.
Macut underscored that his government would prioritize domestic stability and a strategic foreign policy.
In response to ongoing youth-led demonstrations and institutional instability, he committed to maintaining the rule of law and promoting open dialogue while protecting the rights of all citizens.
"Demonstrations and expressions of dissatisfaction are typical for the youth," Macut expressed, "however, blockades and the infringement of others' rights to work, study, or live normally are intolerable."
He announced the creation of a Council for Youth and Talents, which he will personally lead.
The council's mission is to cultivate young talent and leverage their potential for the nation's progress.
Regarding international relations, Macut reiterated Serbia's sovereign and balanced approach.
While affirming Serbia's commitment to the European Union (EU) accession process, he highlighted the nation's independence in policy formulation.
"Serbia does not approach the EU from a position of begging, but rather from one of conviction. This relationship is a partnership based on mutual respect, not imbalance," he stated.
He also emphasized that domestic reforms are driven by national priorities rather than external pressures.
"Our reforms do not stem from EU demands. They address the needs of our citizens," Macut added.
He reaffirmed Serbia's commitment to extensive international cooperation, asserting that the country will "extend hands of collaboration to all."
Macut also addressed the Kosovo matter, referring to it as the highest national priority.
"We do not abandon our principles, but we do not dismiss dialogue. Peace is unattainable without justice," he declared.
Macut's appointment comes after the resignation of former Prime Minister Milos Vucevic, who stepped down on January 28 amid escalating tensions following the tragic canopy collapse at the Novi Sad railway station in November 2024, which resulted in 16 fatalities.
The National Assembly officially acknowledged Vucevic's resignation on March 19.
