11 November — Armistice Day

Natalie’s ramonda, a flower that can revive with water even after drying out completely, symbolises the suffering, perseverance, hope and unbreakable resolve of the Serbian people — the strength that brought about Serbia’s rebirth. The green and black ribbon recalls the ribbon of the Albanian Commemorative Medal and the extraordinary endurance of those who survived the Serbian army’s retreat through Albania.

May their sacrifice never be in vain. May it remain an enduring memory and a pledge to preserve peace, freedom and dignity. Memory eternal and eternal rest to all who laid down their lives for their homeland and the freedom of generations to come. May their souls rejoice in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Their sacrifice obliges us, today more than ever, to work for Serbia’s renewal and to build the Serbia they dreamed of as they gave their lives for her.

May Natalie’s ramonda symbolise the rebirth of a modern, democratic Serbia, founded on law and the rule of law. A country of equal opportunity, justice, truth and love. A Serbia that cherishes Christlike values and its Orthodox Christian and Saint Sava heritage, where all citizens, of every faith and nationality, feel the warmth, security and belonging of their shared Serbian home.

A Serbia that will be part of the European family of nations, a strategic partner of the United States of America, and a country that nurtures excellent relations with the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China, preserving historic alliances and building friendships for the future.

The depth of Serbian-American friendship is recalled by 28 July 1918, when, on the orders of President Woodrow Wilson, the Serbian flag flew over the White House in honour of the courage and sacrifice of the Serbian people. That gesture of respect and solidarity between allies remains a lasting testament to the esteem Serbia earned through its struggle for freedom. May this historic alliance inspire us to renew and strengthen the friendship and strategic partnership between Serbia and the United States of America.

We want a Serbia that will live in peace and work with its neighbours to make the Balkans a region of cooperation, development and major investment opportunities. Through knowledge, work and trust, let us open the door to greater investment, infrastructure development and opportunities for young people — realising our region’s immense potential for the benefit of Southeast Europe, our entire continent and the world.

In the youth and student movement for truth, justice and accountability, I recognise a new political idea on European soil and a new identity for Serbia: knowledge, courage, persistence and solidarity. This call for a fairer society also gave rise to the student electoral list — an expression of a movement that transcends the framework of a conventional political party and has inspired the world through its strength and perseverance.

Their struggle, sacrifice and steadfastness embody the symbolism of Natalie’s ramonda — hope renewed and the strength to bring about Serbia’s rebirth.

May the memory of our ancestors inspire us to be worthy of their sacrifice through our deeds, and responsible for the future of our country and our people. For our beautiful Serbia, her children and the generations to come.

Glory to the heroes! Long live Serbia!