Đurić with Saar on further development of Serbian-Israeli relations

Conveying greetings from the people, government, and president of Serbia, Minister Đurić stated at a press conference that the meeting with his Israeli counterpart was an opportunity to discuss the further enhancement of relations between Serbia and Israel.

Recognizing Serbia’s significant economic progress and its leading growth rate in Southeast Europe—exceeding four percent—Minister Đurić highlighted the strengthening of cooperation in technology and innovation as a key topic.

“With a rapidly growing IT and software industry, Belgrade has become a hub for many high-tech companies from the U.S. and Europe. That is why we want to build our future in this field in partnership with Israel,” said Minister Đurić, adding that the two countries have enormous potential for economic collaboration.

The Serbian Foreign Minister emphasized that Serbia supports Israel’s prosperity and welcomes further Israeli investments.

“I want to thank you for your participation in Expo 2027, where your country will have the opportunity to present its achievements to Europe and the world. Belgrade will serve as a meeting point for countries from different regions and continents,” Đurić stated, noting that Serbia is investing over $17 billion in the Expo 2027 project.

The ministers also discussed tourism cooperation, with Đurić emphasizing efforts to promote visits by Israeli tourists to Serbia and vice versa.

He further noted that President Aleksandar Vučić envisions an economic ecosystem where Serbia and Israel will establish strong ties in innovation and other industries, not only bilaterally but also in third markets.

The possibility of organizing a visit by a Serbian business delegation to Israel was also discussed, with Đurić expressing confidence that the significant potential for economic cooperation, supported by the strong commitment of both governments, would soon be realized.

Minister Đurić underscored the importance of the Jewish community in Serbia, highlighting that, at President Vučić’s initiative, Serbia became the first country in Europe to adopt a law on restitution for Holocaust victims without living legal heirs.

“We will continue to ensure that this year, marking the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazism and fascism, we jointly remember the Holocaust and the victims of totalitarian ideologies while laying the foundations for new generations to learn from history and prevent past mistakes from repeating,” Đurić said.

Regarding Kosovo and Metohija, Đurić informed his Israeli counterparts about the suffering and difficult conditions faced by the Serbian people in the province, who endure daily hardships and persecution.

“I conveyed Serbia’s commitment to maintaining regional stability in a constructive manner, which is crucial for Europe's security,” he emphasized.

Addressing the Middle East situation, Minister Đurić reaffirmed Serbia’s support for the Israeli people, who have endured multiple attacks.

“I want to take this opportunity to highlight our deep concern over the situation with hostages, as many remain captive by Hamas. One of them, Alon Ohel, is an Israeli-Serbian citizen who was kidnapped at just 22 years old. He was not a soldier, nor was he armed—he is a pianist,” Đurić stated, urging the international community to act for the immediate release of all hostages.

Following the meeting, Israeli Foreign Minister Saar expressed his commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Serbia, emphasizing the importance of high-level visits.

He praised Minister Đurić’s dedication to Israel and regional stability and reiterated Israel’s unwavering commitment to securing the release of all hostages, including Alon Ohel. Saar also thanked Serbia for its solidarity with the families of those abducted.

The talks also covered the situation in Lebanon and Gaza, with Minister Saar confirming Israel’s participation in Expo 2027 in Belgrade as another step toward deepening ties between the two countries.

When asked about the progress toward a free trade agreement between Serbia and Israel, Saar noted that this issue was discussed as part of broader efforts to enhance bilateral relations.

Expressing gratitude for Serbia’s decision to lift its travel advisory for Israel, Saar voiced confidence that the restoration of direct flights would boost tourism and encouraged Israeli citizens to visit Serbia.