Author: Fonet
The UK Ambassador to Belgrade, Edward Ferguson, stated today that British investors in Serbia and the region are looking for predictability, stability, and the strengthening and efficiency of institutions, adding that the goal of his country is to support Serbia on its path toward the European Union.
In a conversation with NALED’s Executive Director, Violeta Jovanović, Ferguson said it is necessary to continue investing in infrastructure, internal connectivity within the country, as well as connecting with other states in the region.
“We value our cooperation with NALED because it allows us to support the country—stable and prosperous—on its path to EU membership through dialogue and reforms, without interfering in domestic politics,” he added.
“The United Kingdom is the second most influential country in the world in terms of soft power, and that’s not just because of football, ‘Only Fools and Horses,’ or Ed Sheeran,” Ferguson said, emphasizing that his country is known for its professional and efficient institutions.
Ferguson noted that the UK is the largest bilateral donor to e-government in Serbia, recalling its support in establishing digital services such as e-Baby registration and property registration.
However, he added that it is important to strengthen the rule of law, as British companies cite slow and inefficient resolution of commercial disputes as a key issue.
The Ambassador added that last week the UK–Western Balkans Economic Conference was held, where British companies expressed strong interest in the region.