The Fourth of July is the most significant date in American history—the day in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was adopted by Congress. This document established the United States as independent from British rule, under which it had been a colony.
According to Ambassador Christopher Hill, the Declaration of Independence is one of the best-written documents in the English language.
As one might imagine, this holiday is celebrated in a quintessentially American style, featuring parades, barbecues, cold beer, and, of course, fireworks. The U.S. Embassy in Serbia marked the occasion with a celebration in Serbia, inviting guests from various walks of life.
At the start of the ceremony, U.S. Marines formally presented the American flag to Ambassador Hill, who co-hosted the event with his wife, Julie. The national anthems of both countries were performed shortly afterward.
On this occasion, EUpravo interviewed His Excellency Christopher Hill.
How is Independence Day celebrated in the United States, and what does it represent for your people?
"We throw a big party, usually outdoors, probably with barbecues, because that’s how Americans celebrate. And what are we celebrating? We celebrate our freedoms and our country, even after 248 years. We also celebrate the Declaration of Independence, which, if one takes the time to read it, I believe is one of the best-written documents in the English language."
How would you assess the current relationship between the United States and Serbia?
"I think the relationship between the United States and Serbia is improving rapidly. Many things are moving in the right direction, and there’s a shared sentiment that we have more similarities than differences. It’s all based on mutual respect. I often say that Americans and Serbs share one thing in common: we don’t like being told what to do. In that spirit, we’ve discovered that we can achieve a lot together."
Where is there room for improving cooperation?
"There’s still a lot left to do. We collaborate in many economic fields, which I think is crucial for both of our peoples. Many American companies operate here, and there’s optimism about the economic direction Serbia is taking.
"We also have a strong relationship between our military forces. We’re proud of the fact that the Ohio National Guard has been here multiple times to work, train, and exercise with Serbian forces. So, there’s plenty we’re trying to achieve.
"However, one area we must not overlook is people-to-people exchanges. We now have direct flights to New York and Chicago, and there will probably be more direct flights to Serbia.
"I know Serbs like to joke that Chicago is the largest Serbian city, and indeed, many Serbian Americans visit here. I think we’ll see even more exchanges in the future."
How would you assess the political stability in the Balkans?
"Peace and security are the number one issues in this region. The Balkans has had a turbulent history, especially during the 20th century. It’s been a challenging topic.
"However, another important relationship the U.S. values is with the European Union. As Serbia works toward EU membership, the United States shares that aspiration and would like to help."
How does the United States support Serbia on its path to the EU?
"The United States supports Serbia’s EU accession process. We understand it’s a long and arduous journey. This process has been ongoing for some time, and we fully back it.
"Our role isn’t to secure new members for the EU, but we are committed to helping Serbia prepare for membership as much as we can."