JTW: Putin Visit to Serbia to Focus on Gas

At a time of intense diplomatic pressure on the Kremlin over Ukraine, Russia's leader is to visit Serbia in October on a mission to shore up ties with his Balkan ally - and discuss the South Stream gas pipeline.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia has confirmed that he will visit Serbia on October 19 for the 70th anniversary celebration of the Soviet Red Army's liberation of Belgrade at the end of the Second World War.

At meetings with Serbian President Tomislav Nikolic and Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic, talks will focus on bilateral cooperation over the South Stream gas pipeline, part of which is to pass through Serbia.

Serbia and Russia are closes allies and - despite pressure from Brussels - Serbia has refused to join sanctions imposed on Russia in relarion to its involvement in the crisis in Ukraine.

Belgrade has also refused to abandon its plans to participate in the Russian-managed gas pipeline.

Belgrade officials insist that the project is crucial for Serbia's energy sustainability and cannot be sacrificed.  MORE