Vucic appoints endocrinologist Djuro Macut as Serbian Prime Minister

On Sunday, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic put forward the nomination of Djuro Macut, a 62-year-old endocrinologist, to take on the role of the new prime minister of the country.

Vucic appoints endocrinologist Djuro Macut as Serbian Prime Minister
On Sunday, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic put forward the nomination of Djuro Macut, a 62-year-old endocrinologist, as the new prime minister of Serbia.

Macut, who serves as a professor at the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Belgrade, is also the deputy director of the Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolic Diseases at the University Clinical Center of Serbia. He is poised to take over from Milos Vucevic.

This nomination must still receive parliamentary approval, with a deadline for forming a new government set for April 18.

Vucic commended Macut for his professional competence and personal integrity, suggesting he represents "the dedication and competence needed to perform the duties of prime minister."

The president laid out the new government's priorities, which include elevating living standards and advancing pivotal development initiatives across various sectors such as healthcare, education, science and technology, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, tourism, and environmental sustainability.

Another significant emphasis, as noted by Vucic, will be the preparations for Expo 2027 in Belgrade, anticipated to act as a critical investment venue during the government's tenure.

Vucic also highlighted the necessity of maintaining a balance between Serbia's European integration and sustaining strong relationships with traditional partners in the East. He pointed out that the forthcoming administration would encounter challenges, including regional political dynamics, tariff concerns with the United States, and the renewal of both domestic and foreign direct investment.

"It will be a major responsibility for the new government to preserve peace and stability, to act patiently and with restraint, and to avoid the use of force unless absolutely necessary," he remarked.

Furthermore, Vucic encouraged Macut to assemble a committed team ready to "fight and push the country forward," emphasizing the need for an active government "not hiding in offices, afraid of what tomorrow may bring."

Vucevic had announced his resignation on January 28 in the wake of increased tensions following a tragic canopy collapse at Novi Sad railway station in November 2024, which resulted in 16 fatalities. The National Assembly of Serbia confirmed his resignation on March 19 of this year.

Frederick R Cook for TROIB News

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