Serbia and South Africa: A New Momentum in Political, Economic and Cultural Cooperation
16. Apr 2026.
Belgrade, 15 April 2026 – During the bilateral political consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa, led by State Secretary Damjan Jović and Deputy Minister Alvin Botes, the traditionally strong and friendly relations were reaffirmed, alongside a shared readiness to further enhance cooperation through intensified political dialogue and high-level exchanges. Particular emphasis was placed on cooperation in economy, agriculture and information technology, as well as coordination within international organizations.
During his visit, Deputy Minister Alvin Botes also met with Serbia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marko Đurić. The officials highlighted the importance of marking 30 years of diplomatic relations and stressed the need to further strengthen the legal framework and economic cooperation. Minister Đurić expressed appreciation for South Africa’s principled support for Serbia’s territorial integrity and welcomed its participation in Expo 2027 in Belgrade.
An additional boost to bilateral ties was provided through discussions with the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, where significant potential for cooperation was identified in energy, mining, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, ICT, construction and logistics. The possibility of opening a Chamber’s representative office in South Africa was also considered, alongside organizing business delegations to foster investments and joint presence in third markets.
As part of the visit, the South African delegation also visited a museum in Belgrade, where discussions focused on cultural cooperation and preparations for Expo 2027 programmes. The importance of cultural diplomacy and the role of museums in presenting national heritage and contemporary achievements were particularly emphasized.
During his visit, Deputy Minister Alvin Botes also met with Serbia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marko Đurić. The officials highlighted the importance of marking 30 years of diplomatic relations and stressed the need to further strengthen the legal framework and economic cooperation. Minister Đurić expressed appreciation for South Africa’s principled support for Serbia’s territorial integrity and welcomed its participation in Expo 2027 in Belgrade.
An additional boost to bilateral ties was provided through discussions with the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, where significant potential for cooperation was identified in energy, mining, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, ICT, construction and logistics. The possibility of opening a Chamber’s representative office in South Africa was also considered, alongside organizing business delegations to foster investments and joint presence in third markets.
As part of the visit, the South African delegation also visited a museum in Belgrade, where discussions focused on cultural cooperation and preparations for Expo 2027 programmes. The importance of cultural diplomacy and the role of museums in presenting national heritage and contemporary achievements were particularly emphasized.
