Ambassador Mart meets former President Thabo Mbeki in Johannesburg

Particular attention was given to the importance of raising public awareness in South Africa about the history of relations between Serbia and South Africa and the role that Yugoslavia played in supporting the struggle of the people of South Africa and other African peoples for freedom, equality and self-determination.

Through the Non-Aligned Movement and the United Nations, Yugoslavia played an active role internationally in opposing apartheid, racial discrimination and colonialism, advocating decolonisation and the right of peoples to self-determination. This support was not limited to the diplomatic and political sphere, but also included concrete assistance to liberation movements in Africa, including scholarships and education for their members and other forms of support. Historical records document Yugoslavia's support for the African National Congress (ANC) and other liberation movements.

Ambassador Mart underlined that this historical legacy represents an important part of the foundations upon which relations between Serbia and South Africa were built, and that greater awareness of this shared history can contribute to strengthening mutual understanding and cooperation. Recalling these historical links is particularly relevant as Serbia and South Africa continue to develop cooperation in contemporary areas of mutual interest.

The interlocutors also exchanged views on opportunities to further promote the historical links between the two countries through cultural, educational and other initiatives aimed at bringing the shared elements of their history closer to the public in both Serbia and South Africa.

The meeting with former President Thabo Mbeki provided an opportunity to exchange views with one of the prominent figures of the historic process that led to South Africa's democratic transformation. During the struggle against apartheid, Mbeki played an important role in the ANC's international activities, particularly in the field of international relations and diplomatic engagement. He subsequently served as President of the Republic of South Africa from 1999 to 2008.