The Serbian government and the Turkish partner interested in buying Jat Airways, a Serbian airline owned by the government, have begun a round of technical negotiation on the sale, which could lead to an agreement if successful, Serbia's Minister Without Portfolio Sulejman Ugljanin stated Thursday.

"We are all interested in getting the Turkish side to continue the negotiations until we reach an agreement," Ugljanin told Tanjug. The latest negotiations refer to technicalities, like assets and their values, said Ugljanin, adding that the next phase could be to sign an agreement.

Serbia's offer is excellent, Ugljanin stressed. The airline has no outstanding debts, its aircraft are in good condition, the staff can service 40 aircraft and it has landing rights, which is the most expensive item, he noted, adding that the government was offering all that practically for free.

Therefore, the Turkish partner should do Serbia no favours and simply act according to their interest, since the company will be owned by both parties, Ugljanin concluded.