Djuric: Kosovo will be an important topic in Benin—Serbia will seek support on this issue

On the first day of his official visit to Benin, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Marko Djuric, stated that Serbia views its friendship with African countries as one of its key development opportunities. He announced that Kosovo—particularly developments on the ground—will be among the main topics in his discussions with Beninese officials, and that he will request their support on this issue.

Minister Djuric, the first Serbian Foreign Minister to visit Benin, expressed his honor at having already held significant meetings in the first few hours of the visit, including with the Ministers of Defence, Culture, and Tourism, adding that he also expects to meet with the Minister of Sports.

"Today, we will hold comprehensive consultations with parliamentary representatives and the country’s top leadership. Tomorrow, we will continue with political consultations at the level of Foreign Ministers, followed by an official dinner hosted for the Serbian delegation," Djuric reported.

He emphasized that the goal of the visit is to deepen Serbia’s partnership and friendship with Benin, and more broadly, to strengthen Serbia’s presence in West Africa.

"Serbia sees its friendship with African nations as a strategic development opportunity. This continent will, in the years ahead, continue to register the highest economic and demographic growth globally. Those who secure their position here in time will ensure partnerships for their scientists, industries, and institutions in the future," Djuric stated.

He underlined that Serbia strives to be a reliable and equal partner to African nations—one that does not impose political conditions.

Recalling Serbia’s longstanding ties with Africa, Minister Djuric emphasized that the country has been pursuing a policy of support and cooperation with African peoples since the era of President Josip Broz Tito and the Non-Aligned Movement.

"Today, under the leadership of President Aleksandar Vucic, Serbia recognizes Africa as a domain in which it can achieve comparative advantages over other European countries and contribute to accelerating our economic growth and development," he noted.

The Foreign Minister affirmed that Serbia is seeking support from Benin on issues of vital national interest:

"On Kosovo and Metohija. It is certain that we will speak with our counterparts in Benin about Kosovo and Metohija, about the importance of our southern province and developments on the ground. We will seek support on this matter," Djuric stated.

He also confirmed that Benin will participate in the EXPO 2027 to be held in Belgrade.

"We warmly welcome Benin’s participation in EXPO 2027 in Belgrade. Their delegation already attended a preparatory meeting held a few weeks ago in the Serbian capital, and we believe that, through their culture and remarkable history marked by bravery and resilience, they will be able to present their rich heritage to Serbia and the world," Djuric explained.

He concluded by underscoring Serbia’s pride in being a country that has stood against colonialism for decades and that now pursues a multi-vector foreign policy—one that views African countries and peoples as equal partners in building a shared future, just as it does with its European partners.