Kozarev, Pakistani ambassador discuss advancement of bilateral relations

BELGRADE - Secretary General at the Serbian MFA Dusan Kozarev met with Pakistan's newly-appointed ambassador to Belgrade Syed Faraz Hussain Zaidi on Wednesday to discuss possibilities for advancement of bilateral relations, as well as current issues in the international arena.

"With both sides reaffirming their readiness to further strengthen mutual dialogue - particularly through the exchange of visits at high and the highest levels - interest was also expressed in enhancing economic cooperation, as well as cooperation in the fields of IT and cybersecurity," the Serbian MFA said in a statement.

"Kozarev emphasised that Serbia attaches immense importance to its relations with Pakistan, which date back to 1948, noting Serbia’s commitment to expanding its network of diplomatic and consular missions and, in that context, plans to reopen its embassy in Islamabad.

Referring to Serbia’s foreign policy priorities, Kozarev underlined that the country’s objective is to attain full membership in the European Union, while maintaining balanced relations with major powers such as China, Russia, and the United States. He stressed in particular that Serbia does not forget its traditional ties with partners in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. He added that Serbia is especially focused on the region, good-neighborly relations, and remains highly open to all regional initiatives.

Ambassador Faraz Zaidi conveyed Pakistan’s view that Serbia is its most important partner in the Western Balkans, with whom it seeks to strengthen ties across all areas.

The Secretary General expressed confidence that Ambassador Faraz Zaidi would contribute to the further strengthening of friendship between the two countries, adding that the Ambassador can count on the full support of the Ministry and other institutions in fostering more substantive relations between Serbia and Pakistan," the MFA also said.