HRH CROWN PRINCE ALEXANDER II
CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR MESSAGE JULIAN CALENDAR

Belgrade, 3 January 2008 – His Royal Highness Crown Prince Alexander II extended the following Christmas and New Year’s message to the citizens of Serbia who celebrate Christmas according to the Julian calendar.

Dear citizens of Serbia,

We are at an end of a year that was marked, above all other things, by the endeavour of the state of Serbia to find a just solution for the issue of Kosovo and Metohija. The very fact that a consensus was reached regarding this issue within Serbian society, where the President, Prime Minister, the Government, Parliament and the Serbian Orthodox Church, all took the same stand, gives us hope.

In the coming year, we will face important tasks, such as the continued recovery, reforms and development of our economy and work for economic success of Serbia. We must respect our international obligations. We must continue with European integration and with the aim for membership of the European Union at the earliest opportunity. All these issues are vital for the future of Serbia so the need is for the unity for all who take part in the negotiations. I call for the unity of all participants on our political scene when undisputable national interests are at stake. Unity will give the needed credibility in our own eyes and in the eyes of the world.

Our goal must be the preservation of the integrity and the sovereignty of our country. We must contribute to the stability and development of the region, Europe and the world. Of course, we must do that so that each and every one of our citizens regardless of religion or ethnic origin has a better and a nicer life. We must reinforce in Serbia human rights and democratic principles. We must work for a better future and for the future of our youth.

All the best for the New Year, peace, good health, happiness and success always.

Merry Christmas!

Christ is born!