Serbia fetes guests on its 210th anniversary
The ambience of the Ladi Kwali Hall, Sheraton Hotel and Towers Abuja was right for over 350 guests of the Serbian embassy in Nigeria as the European country celebrated its 210 years anniversary on Monday night.
The occasion was also grace by members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, Serbians in Nigeria and other well wishers that enjoyed the activities lined up.
Different Serbia delicacies were served as well as showcasing of different aspect of life of the Serbian people.
Serbia Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Rifat Rondic, while welcoming guests said his country in the last few months have achieved a lot which needed recognition.
Rondic said the agreement governing the normalisation of relations between Kosovo was signed in April last year under the mediation of the European Union adding that the process of its implementation is in progress.
He also said that Serbia’s policy will continue to emphasise the necessity for compromise and comprehensive solutions saying his government maintains the principle that there is no recognition and membership in the United Nations (UN) of Kosovo.
The envoy also announced the decision of the European Union (EU) authorities at its inter-governmental conference to begin the process of official accession negotiation with Serbia for its membership in the Union.
He described the step as historic and a new chapter in the country’s relations and a success of its diplomacy in the last few decades as Serbia citizens have strong aspirations of becoming members of the EU in the next few years.
Rondic also disclosed that his country will be holding parliamentary election next month with the plan of the present government to check the will of voters after affirmative results in its regional and foreign policy.
Speaking on the bilateral relations between his country and Nigeria, the envoy said they expect improvements this year especially with the re-opening of the Nigerian Embassy in Belgrade two years ago.
With $10 million to $20 million trade relations between the two countries, Rondic said he look forward to an improved bilateral relations in the future.
He therefore thanked Nigeria for the approval for the construction of the embassy’s permanent building which is expected to be completed by the end of this year.