"The friendship between Russia and Serbia is already a tradition. Now our relations are at the level of strategic cooperation. That's why Serbia never has and never will impose sanctions or other restrictive measures against Russia despite the pressure exerted on Serbia," Dacic said.

The foreign minister stressed that Serbia's plans to become part of the European Union will not hamper development of relations with Russia. He noted that Moscow helps Belgrade defend its national interests, including on the issue of Kosovo. "It would be incorrect, to put it mildly, to follow Western countries in imposing sanctions," he added.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov earlier told the Serbian Telegraph newspaper that Western countries exert pressure on Serbia. Lavrov noted that Belgrade successfully withstands pressure and pursues an independent foreign policy.