Memorandum of Understanding between Serbia and Somalia

Minister Dačić said that this visit could be interpreted as a precursor of sorts for the intensification of the political relations between the two countries and even higher-level bilateral visits, and that he wished that the President of Somalia would soon visit Serbia, which would, in his estimation, be a very important event in the diplomatic relations between the two countries.

He emphasised that there was a traditional friendship between Serbia and Somalia since the time of Josip Broz Tito and the Non-Aligned Movement, but that the relations - political, economic, cultural or any other - between the two countries were not sufficiently developed.

“This is why we have decided to intensify our relations”, stated Minister Dačić.

He stressed that Serbia respected the territorial integrity of Somalia and vice versa, that Somalia respected Serbia's territorial integrity.

“Because of that and in this manner, we will cooperate in all international organisations”, said Minister Dačić.

He stated that the economic cooperation between Serbia and Somalia was on a very high level, and for that reason, the communities of the two countries should be more connected.

Minister Dačić added that it had been agreed on today’s meeting that the number of scholarships for Somalian students in Serbia would be increased.

“So far there have been 20 scholarships used by Somalian students. We will make efforts to progressively increase that number over the following years,” said Minister Dačić.

In his words, it had been agreed that agreements would also be made in various other fields where optimal cooperation could be achieved, such as military education, military health care, military training and advanced training...

“This was a very useful meeting, which started a new era in our relations, which makes me very happy, because I am sure that we will witness an intensified cooperation in the upcoming period”, said Minister Dačić. He particularly welcomed the fact that Somalia had opened an embassy in Serbia.

Minister Jama said that Serbia was a beautiful country and the Serbian people were friendly, and stated that this visit was a continuation of the historical relations between the two countries.

“We recall the visit of our President to Serbia in the 1960s, when we became an independent country. From that time to the early 1990s, before the war in Somalia started, the relations between our two countries were excellent”, added Minister Jama.

He stated that this was one of the best cooperative relationships Somalia had, which benefited Somalia in every sector, including expert connections, military training, training of health care workers and other experts, adding that there were still experts in Somalia who had been educated in Serbia.

“I am here so we could revive that wonderful cooperation. I want to make it possible for all sectors to develop and use the skills and opportunities of this country. My wish is to connect our health sectors. I would like to use this opportunity to thank the Government of Serbia for the support it provided to Somalia even before this visit”, said Minister Jama.

Source: Tanjug

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs