National interests include all areas of social life and are in accordance with universal values and aspirations of democratic societies of the modern world. Protection of national interests is a general purpose and meaning of existence and functioning of national security system. Maintaining the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of the Republic of Serbia, as well as national, cultural, religious and historical identity of the Serbian people and national minorities are permanent interests of all its citizens. Keeping internal stability, the rule of law and development of democracy and democratic institutions and integration in the European Union and other international structures have special importance for the development and progress of the Republic of Serbia. Protection of life and property of citizens of the Republic of Serbia, their freedom, equality, national equality and gender equality, social justice, human and minority rights and the inviolability of private and other forms of property are universal values that are accepted as national. Economic development, with environmental protection and the protection of natural resources, is a precondition for the prosperity of citizens and the state and the protection of national values. By its foreign policy, improvement of cooperation with neighbors and building joint capacities and mechanisms for resolving contradictions, disputes and all kinds of challenges, risks and threats at regional and global level, the Republic of Serbia contributes to creating a peaceful, stable and reliable security environment. The Republic of Serbia is committed to the maintenance and development of international order, based on the principles of justice, respect for international law and political and state equality. As a responsible member of the international community, the Republic of Serbia respects international law, the UN Charter, the Helsinki Final Act and the assumed obligations and advocates for the peaceful settlement of disputes between nations and states. 15