In the protection of sovereignty and territorial integrity, the Republic of Serbia is determined to use diplomatic, legal and all other legitimate means in accordance with the firm position outlined by the Constitution never to recognize the decision of provisional institutions of the Autonomous Province of Kosovo and Metohija on the unilateral declaration of independence. Starting from the belief that the national security of the Republic of Serbia is closely linked to the security of the region of Southeast Europe and the continent as a whole, the Republic of Serbia will improve its relations with the EU and NATO members and partners on the basis of direct, close and long-term cooperation and common action. Taking into account the interest of preserving its own territorial integrity and sovereignty, the Republic of Serbia will largely harmonize its foreign and security policy with the positions and activities of the EU in all the major issues of global, European and regional character. Through the process of European integrations, the Republic of Serbia expresses its willingness to build capacities and capabilities of national security system, in accordance with the standards and obligations deriving from the European security and defense policy. Entry into force of the Stabilization and Association Agreement with the EU will enable the Republic of Serbia to intensify dialogue with the EU on the issues of common interest, including security and defense issues. The Republic of Serbia’s accession to the NATO Partnership for Peace program confirms its long-term commitment to contribute to the common democratic values and strengthening regional and global security. The Republic of Serbia emphasizes its belief that the active and meaningful cooperation of all countries of the Western Balkans with the NATO and Partnership for Peace member countries is the road to permanent stabilization and prosperity of this region. 17