Belgrade, March 13, 2003 - EU High Representative for Common Foreign and Security Policy Javier Solana and EU External Relations Commissioner Chris Patten told the press after meeting Serbian and new state union authorities that the EU will give its strong support to the reform-minded Serbian government after yesterday's assassination of Prime Minister Zoran Djindjic.
Solana said he was "shocked and surprised" when he learned that the Prime Minister had been gunned down.
We came here to show our friends in this country, its people, and representatives of the government and all institutions our solidarity at this difficult moment, said Solana. We will do all that is in our power to help you make your dream come true, the dream the majority of you in this country shared with Prime Minister Djindjic - the dream of joining the EU family.
Patten said he was shocked by the tragic killing of a man who supported the basic values of democracy.
This is why we wanted to come to Belgrade, to offer you our condolences and share our sorrow with you, said Patten. I want to let you know that we are by your side and that we will continue to cooperate with you - give you all the assistance you need on your road to further democratisation. We also want to stress that you are well on your way there, said Patten, adding that there is no turning back.
Acting Serbian President Natasa Micic said that the arrival of Solana and Patten represents great support to democratic forces in Serbia and its democratic government on the reform path and to Serbia and Montenegro in these hard times.
"I told Solana and Patten that after this heinous terrorist act aimed against Serbia and its Prime Minister, this country is not the same anymore. It has changed and will not be as it was yesterday. I am very grateful for the support, assistance and solidarity we have received from our high-ranking visitors from Brussels," said Micic, adding that she expects European institutions to show greater understanding towards the citizens of Serbia and Montenegro.
