A strategic meeting between Mndeni Mthabela of Diplomacy South Africa and Saša Mart took place on 13 May 2026 at the Serbian Embassy in Pretoria, where discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between South Africa and Serbia across multiple sectors.

The engagement formed part of broader conversations around future partnerships leading up to Expo 2027 Belgrade, themed “Play for Humanity,” which is expected to become a major global platform for innovation, creativity, culture and international cooperation.

Expo 2027 Belgrade Positioned as a Global Collaboration Platform

During the meeting, Ambassador Mart highlighted the importance of Expo 2027 Belgrade as a platform that will bring together countries, businesses, innovators and institutions from across the world. The Ambassador expressed optimism about stronger African participation and greater cooperation opportunities with South Africa in the lead-up to the global event.

The discussions explored potential collaboration opportunities involving media, business networking, innovation ecosystems, cultural exchanges and knowledge-sharing initiatives that could further strengthen ties between the two countries.

Successful South Africa-Serbia Political Consultations Welcomed

Ambassador Mart welcomed the successful South Africa-Serbia Political Consultations that took place during the visit of South African Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Alvin Botes to Serbia from 15 to 16 April 2026.

During the visit, Deputy Minister Botes met with Serbia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Marko Đurić and also visited the Museum of African Art in Belgrade.

Serbia Exploring Expanded Trade Cooperation with South Africa

A major focus of the meeting centred on trade and economic cooperation. Ambassador Mart explained that Serbia is actively working with a variety of stakeholders to expand trade relations with South Africa and create stronger commercial partnerships.

While trade between the two countries already exists, the Ambassador indicated that Serbia sees substantial room for growth in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, technology, infrastructure and industrial development.

The Ambassador also revealed that discussions are underway regarding the possible establishment of a Serbia Chamber of Commerce in South Africa. In Serbia, the Chamber of Commerce operates as a parastatal institution through which businesses are registered and supported in identifying international opportunities.

This initiative is expected to create stronger links between Serbian and South African businesses while opening pathways for investment, exports and business cooperation.

High-Level Serbian Government Visits Expected

Ambassador Mart further shared that several high-level Serbian government engagements and visits to South Africa are expected in the near future. These engagements are anticipated to strengthen diplomatic, political and economic cooperation while also identifying new strategic areas for partnership.

The upcoming visits are expected to build upon the growing momentum in bilateral relations and contribute toward broader cooperation between Serbia and African countries.

Ambassador Mart Reflects on His Personal Connection to South Africa

The Ambassador also reflected on his deep personal connection with South Africa, having previously served in the country between 2015 and 2020 before later returning as Ambassador.

He shared that his daughter was born in South Africa, creating a special bond with the country and influencing his decision to choose South Africa for his first ambassadorial posting.

Ambassador Mart spoke warmly about South Africa’s people, culture and historical significance, emphasising that the relationship between South Africa and Serbia extends beyond diplomacy and politics.

Historical Solidarity Between Serbia and South Africa

The Ambassador reflected on the historic relations between the former Yugoslavia and African liberation movements during the apartheid era. He noted that Yugoslavia provided support and space for many African liberation activists, including South Africans.

This historical solidarity, he said, continues to shape contemporary relations between Serbia and South Africa today.

Serbia Expands Scholarship Opportunities for African Youth

Education emerged as another key area of cooperation during the meeting. Ambassador Mart highlighted Serbia’s scholarship opportunities for African and South African students, noting that these scholarships are fully funded by the Serbian government.

The programmes provide opportunities for young Africans to study in Serbia with tuition, accommodation and other essential costs covered.

The Ambassador emphasised Serbia’s strong reputation in education and said the country hopes to deepen educational partnerships with South Africa while empowering youth through access to quality international education.

Serbia Showcases Strength in ICT, Technology and Agriculture

Ambassador Mart also highlighted Serbia’s growing capabilities in information and communication technology, innovation and digital development. He indicated that Serbia possesses strong expertise in ICT and technology sectors, creating opportunities for collaboration and skills exchange with South Africa.

Agriculture was identified as another important sector where Serbia has significant experience, particularly in agricultural equipment manufacturing and production technologies.

The Ambassador further noted Serbia’s advanced manufacturing capabilities in defence equipment production, adding that Serbian industries are competitive internationally and could explore future cooperation opportunities with South African stakeholders, including entities such as Denel.

He stressed the importance of increasing engagement between Serbian and South African institutions to unlock new opportunities for cooperation across various sectors.

Strengthening Serbia-South Africa Relations for the Future

The meeting reaffirmed the growing diplomatic and economic relationship between South Africa and Serbia, with both countries seeking stronger cooperation in trade, education, innovation, agriculture, technology and cultural exchange.

As preparations continue for Expo 2027 Belgrade, the discussions reflected a shared commitment toward expanding bilateral engagement and creating meaningful partnerships that can benefit both nations in the years ahead.