Djuric: We see Ghana as an ally, together we advocate for the values of the UN Charter

Minister of Foreign Affairs Marko Djuric stated today in Accra that Serbia sees Ghana as a key regional ally, as both countries are committed to the values of the UN Charter and an international order based on rules and respect for the sovereign equality of nations, and are oriented toward economic development.

"Serbia is grateful to the authorities and people of Ghana for their continued support for our territorial integrity and sovereignty," Djuric emphasized, pointing out that Serbia is actively working to maintain regional stability, pursuing an independent policy focused on the economy.

He noted that this year is very important for the world.

"We are marking the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter, which was adopted to prevent a repetition of the horrors of the past. Unfortunately, we are witnessing the world drifting away from that vision. That is why it is more important than ever to rally around the principles adopted eight decades ago," Djuric stressed.

He said he is not afraid to say that Serbia stands for peace in Ukraine, in the Middle East, and in various parts of Africa.

"Serbia advocates for respect of the principles and the UN Charter. At a time when small and medium-sized countries are under pressure to choose sides, we reject changes to international law. International law is the only safeguard and guarantee that our countries will not suffer the same fate as some currently caught in the vortex. We believe in the role of the UN, even if not everyone does. We support UN reform so that Africa can gain a stronger voice in the Security Council and other bodies of the world organization," he said.

Djuric stated that the Western Balkans is a region that has been through much over the past three decades but now has the potential to quickly become a leader in development in Europe.

At a joint press conference with Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Djuric said that Serbian and other companies from the Western Balkans region have the potential to connect with businesses in Ghana and its economy.

“We see Ghana as a key regional ally and partner, deeply rooted in historical friendship, but oriented toward modern and future cooperation. That is why we had such productive discussions on economic cooperation,” Djuric emphasized.

He noted that the foundations of Serbian-Ghanaian relations were laid by Josip Broz Tito and Kwame Nkrumah, and that those relations are continuing to develop through the bold vision of President Aleksandar Vucic and President Mahama.

"Ghana and Serbia stand together as nations advocating for the values of the UN Charter, for universal values of peace, an international order based on rules and respect for the sovereign equality of nations, and a peaceful orientation toward economic development," Djuric said.

He mentioned that he discussed with Ghana’s foreign minister the bold steps Ghana’s government is taking to boost the country’s economic growth and development.

“I believe that both Serbia and Ghana are countries of the future. I come from a country that more than doubled its national GDP after implementing very difficult austerity and economic reforms, and that has managed to reduce unemployment from nearly 20% to 7%, while at the same time lowering its external debt from 79% of GDP to less than 50%,” the Serbian foreign minister stated.

He added that he was inspired by what he heard about ideas to move government and economic drivers to a 24-hour operational mode, as he believes that could accelerate the pace of economic growth and development.

He pointed out that, due to an aging population, there is a need for exchange and bridge-building between peoples.

He announced the expansion of the scholarship system, with 30 additional scholarships to be introduced this year.

He expressed a desire for Serbia to become Ghana’s gateway to Europe.

He emphasized that during his visit to Ghana, he would also meet with ministers responsible for agriculture, sports, and defense.

Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said that Djuric’s visit opens a new chapter in the close partnership between the two countries.

“In our talks, we acknowledged the long-standing relations between our two countries, which date back to the time of the former Yugoslavia, and that both were founding members of the Non-Aligned Movement. That partnership led to the construction of a conference center, with Serbian expertise. That center has become a hub for continental summits, but also symbolizes what can be achieved through cooperation,” he said.

He emphasized the desire to expand cooperation both bilaterally and multilaterally.

Ghana’s foreign minister noted that there is great potential to deepen economic cooperation, especially by leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.

"On the multilateral level, we reaffirmed our faith in the UN Charter. We will remain non-aligned, countries that promote peace and contribute troops to peacekeeping missions," Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized.

He conveyed that military cooperation was discussed in order to equip Ghana's armed forces for a more effective fight against terrorism.

He also spoke about sports, noting that Ghana’s football successes came during the times when Serbian coaches were involved.