On February 18, 2016, The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) and the Balkan Trust for Democracy (BTD) hosted a welcome reception for new U.S. Ambassador Kyle Scott.  Far from new to the region, U.S. Ambassador Kyle Scott has served at the OSCE, the United Nations, and the European Union, as well as in Zagreb, Budapest, Milan, Moscow, and Tel Aviv. At a time when the transatlantic alliance is being redefined, the international security context challenged, and with the Balkans lying at the crossroads of it all, it is vital for Serbia to have the experience, regional expertise, and knowledge of civil society that Ambassador Scott brings. As a former GMF Senior Transatlantic Fellow, GMF and BTD are both proud and honored to welcome him as the new U.S. ambassador to the Republic of Serbia.

The reception began with a warm welcome from BTD Director Gordana Delic, who introduced Ambassador Scott to those in attendance and highlighted the unique opportunities for both him and the country, during his time here. Ambassador Scott then offered a few words. Transitioning seamlessly between Serbian and English, he thanked all for coming and noted that this was the first time he felt “at home” since arriving in Serbia, referencing his reunion with former GMF colleagues. He expressed his great interest to work with civil society and all stakeholders on Serbia’s path toward European integration.

The event brought together nearly 200 members of civil society, both local and national government, media, academia, the private sector, and the diplomatic corps. Notable public figures in attendance, included: Ambassadors from Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, the EU, Macedonia, and Romania; the Kosovo Liaison Officer; Members of Parliament; Government Ministers; and NATO representatives. The event also included GMF and BTD program alumni, and a group of American and Serbian students, who are currently researching each other’s political systems.

This event was organized in cooperation with the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade.