Godfrey: If I were from the region, I would ask why Serbia spends so much on weapons

The US Ambassador to Belgrade, Anthony Godfrey, stated that the United States does not see Serbia as a threat, but how Serbia treats its neighbors and how they perceive it is important.

"If I were from the region, I would wonder why Serbia spends so much on military equipment, instead of investing that money in infrastructure," said Godfrey, a guest on the "Prva" Television program.

Godfrey said that Serbia has chosen military neutrality and that its decision is a partnership with Russia, but that Belgrade is also a strong partner of Washington and that it also buys military equipment from France and the United States.

According to Godfrey, Serbia understands the importance of diversifying energy sources.

If you rely only on Russia, it will be harder to get a better price. For the long-term energy future, diversification is best for Serbia because it will get a better price, Godfrey said, adding that he expects Serbia to soon be supplied with gas through Greece.

Speaking about the tender for the introduction of the fifth generation mobile network - 5G, Godfrey assessed that it is important for the Government of Serbia to make a sovereign decision in choosing the company to which the job will be entrusted.

Many American companies believe that Chinese companies are not trustworthy and this could affect foreign investment in Serbia, Godfrey said.

He said that the unstable situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina could have bad consequences for Serbia's continued economic growth.

Godfrey expressed hope that BiH presidency member Milorad Dodik understands that the future of Republika Srpska lies in BiH.

Regarding relations between Belgrade and Pristina, Godfrey assessed that Serbia and Kosovo must find solutions on their own.

The solution cannot be determined by the European Union, the United States or Russia, because then it will not be permanent, Godfrey said, expressing hope that Belgrade and Pristina will make greater progress in normalizing relations, because “they need to do this if they want to ensure prosperity for their children.”

Godfrey said he expects all citizens of Serbia to participate in the upcoming elections and have the opportunity to express their views.

Serbia is well on its way to improving electoral conditions, but there is still much work to be done. I hope that all candidates will have equal access to the media, said Godfrey, adding that boycotting the elections does not benefit anyone and that voters expect different views and opinions to be heard at the next session of parliament.

Godfrey also expressed hope that citizens will participate in the referendum on constitutional changes related to the judiciary.

Constitutional reforms are important on the path to the EU. The lack of transparency in the judiciary is a major obstacle, Godfrey said.

He said that Washington's policy towards Serbia and the Western Balkans does not change, regardless of who the American ambassador in Belgrade is.

In recent years, relations between Belgrade and Washington have improved drastically, Godfrey said.