South Africa–Serbia Political Consultations in Belgrade, Serbia

28 April 2026

The South African Embassy in the Hellenic Republic, which is also accredited to Serbia, had the honour to provide support to South African Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes during his visit to Serbia on 15-16 April 2026. Deputy Minister Botes met with his counterpart, the State Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Mr Damjan Jović.

Discussions placed particular emphasis on advancing cooperation in trade, education, people to people and cultural exchanges. Both sides expressed a shared determination to expand the volume and diversity of existing trade relations, while encouraging increased investment flows. This includes strengthening business-to-business engagement across key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, mining, education, science, and technology. The consultations also highlighted the importance of expanding scholarship programmes. 

During the courtesy meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Mr Marco Durić, the significance of South Africa-Serbia relations was further reaffirmed.

The meeting with Minister of Internal and Foreign Trade and Commissioner for Expo 2027, Ms Jagoda Lazarević served as a constructive exchange of views that is expected to yield enhanced cultural and bilateral trade opportunities toward improved market access for both countries. 

On the margins of the consultations, Deputy Minister Botes also met with the Deputy President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr Mihailo Vesović. The delegation also met with Dr. Marija Aleksic, Director of the Museum of African Art, where the importance of preserving and promoting the continent’s cultural heritage was emphasised. 

Deputy Minister Botes was supported by the Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa, Dr Lindiwe Msengana-Ndlela, the Chief Director for Central, Eastern Europe, Nordics and Baltic Countries, Ms Phumzile Mazibuko and South Africa’s Honorary Consul in Serbia, Professor Marko Bumbasirevic. In attendance was also the Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia accredited to South Africa, Mr Saša Mart. 

The visit reaffirmed the strong foundations of South Africa - Serbia relations and set the tone for closer future collaboration.

South African Embassy in Athens, Greece