Djuric: Goal of Benin visit is to deepen our friendship, Serbia's presence in West Africa

COTONOU - Serbian FM Marko Djuric said in Cotonou on Monday the goal of his visit to Benin was to deepen the partnership and friendship with the African nation, as well as Serbia's presence in West Africa.

"Serbia views its friendship with African nations as a key development opportunity. In the years to come, this continent will be continuously registering the highest economic and demographic development," Djuric said.

Serbia is a quality and equal partner to African countries and, as early as in the era of former Yugoslav president Tito, it began to conduct a policy of support for and cooperation with African states, Djuric said.

"Today, with President Aleksandar Vucic at its helm, Serbia identifies Africa as one of the fields where our country can achieve a comparative advantage over European countries and contribute to our economic development," he said.

In Benin, Serbia also seeks support for its key national issues, such as Kosovo-Metohija, he said.

"We will definitely discuss that, too - everything that is going on there - and seek support," Djuric said.

He also said he was pleased Benin was among the 130 countries that had confirmed their participation in EXPO 2027 Belgrade.