Djuric: Serbia ready to be dependable partner to African countries

BELGRADE - Serbian FM Marko Djuric said on Tuesday a Serbia-Africa 2024: Dignity conference in Belgrade was an important step towards strengthening political and security relations between Serbia and African states and that Serbia was ready to be a dependable partner to countries on the African continent.

"The Dignity Conference, held here in Belgrade, symbolises our joint commitment to mutual respect, solidarity and cooperation," Djuric said.

He said the conference highlighted the historical ties between Serbia and the African continent, based on joint struggles for sovereignty and dignity, the Serbian MFA said in a statement.

"We are greatly honoured to have hosted the representatives of 40 African countries, united around the principles of equality and partnership. Our discussions were productive and focused on the future, encompassing key topics such as sustainable development, investments, technology transfers and cultural exchange," Djuric noted.

He said Serbia's commitment to building partnerships promoting economic growth, advancing education and ensuring dignity to all people had been reconfirmed.

"Serbia is ready to be a dependable partner to African countries. We are ready to share our know-how and experience, as well as to learn from the innovative approaches of our African friends as we together face global challenges ranging from climate change to food security," Djuric said.

He said the conference was not only a time for reflection, but also a call to action.

"It represents an opportunity to strengthen our ties, inspire cooperation and represent a world in which every state, regardless of its size or geographic position, has an equal voice in shaping a common future," he noted.

Djuric thanked Serbia's African partners for their trust and commitment to that partnership.

"Together, we send a strong message to the world: dignity is not a privilege - it is a universal right," the minister said.