On the 23rd of February, 2011 the Consultations on European Integration and International (Energy) Security Issues between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and the Republic of Serbia took place in Belgrade. Ukrainian side was represented by the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine P.Klimkin.

In the framework of consultations the following issues were discussed: Ukraine’s and Serbia’s European aspirations and prospects for deepening bilateral cooperation in this area, international energy security including Ukraine’s and Serbia’s vision of perspectives for developing the energy cooperation. The Serbian side has briefed on its experience of implementing the Association and Stabilization Agreement as well as the introduction of visa-free regime for Serbian citizens traveling to the EU.

In the context of discussions on energy security the Ukrainian side shared its vision regarding the economic expediency of Ukrainian gas pipeline system modernization in contrast to “South Stream” project.

P.Klimkin had also meeting with the Deputy Head of the National Assembly (Parliament) of Serbia, Head of the Parliamentary Committee on European Integration G.Comic. They discussed the experience of both states in the field of harmonizing national legislation to the EU acquis communautaire. The Sides have also agreed that the close cooperation between the Parliaments of both states would contribute to the European Integration processes of Ukraine and Serbia.