Đurić: Serbia and the Republic of the Congo Share a Promising Future in Bilateral Relations

In his statement to the media following the meeting, Minister Đurić recalled that Serbia has been building its friendships with the peoples of Africa on foundations established during the era when the former Yugoslavia served as a center of support for African nations in their struggle for independence, freedom, and sovereignty.

Noting that last year marked the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations with the Republic of the Congo, Đurić stated that Serbia is positioning itself as a country that seeks political, economic, security, and other partnerships and friendships well beyond the boundaries of its immediate region—believing this to be a comparative advantage for both its economy and foreign policy.

“I would particularly like to thank our friends from the Republic of the Congo for their steadfast support of Serbia on the most important national issue for our people—the issue of our southern province, Kosovo and Metohija. The Republic of the Congo has consistently demonstrated a firm, principled stance over the years by upholding the principles of the UN Charter, the respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of internationally recognized states, and, ultimately, the principles that protect every sovereign country,” Đurić said.

The Serbian Foreign Minister added that the meeting focused on concrete modalities for enhancing bilateral cooperation, to which today’s signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two ministries on political consultations and the Agreement on the Abolition of Visas for Holders of Diplomatic and Official Passports will contribute.

He further stated that both sides agreed to establish regular political consultations, strengthen mutual support in the international arena, enhance business cooperation, and intensify collaboration in the field of education.

Minister Đurić also extended an invitation to the Republic of the Congo to participate in the specialized Expo 2027 exhibition in Belgrade, which, he expressed confidence, will mark a turning point in Serbia’s presentation on the global stage, reshape the image of Belgrade, and attract millions of tourists, businesspeople, athletes, and representatives from the fields of culture and media.

“We truly look forward to the participation of African countries—especially our friendly partners such as the Republic of the Congo—at this important event,” the Serbian Foreign Minister concluded.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Francophonie, and Diaspora of the Republic of the Congo, Jean-Claude Gakosso, said that upon his arrival in Belgrade, his first associations were with the Non-Aligned Movement, in which the former Yugoslavia played a central role.

He emphasized that the Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Serbia are similar countries—both demographically and geographically—and that he had discussed with Minister Đurić the advancement of cooperation in numerous areas, especially in the fields of economy and trade, as well as education through the “World in Serbia” scholarship program.

The Congolese Foreign Minister reaffirmed that Serbia has the full support of his country in preserving its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Minister Gakosso also noted that he had lived in Eastern Europe and is familiar with the history of the Balkan region and Serbia, including Kosovo and Metohija, adding that the Republic of the Congo’s support for Serbia’s territorial integrity will never falter.

During today’s visit, Minister Đurić presented Minister Gakosso with a commemorative postage stamp issued last year by The Post of Serbia in honor of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.