Benin and Serbia have marked a new chapter in diplomatic relations with the signing of a landmark agreement during an official visit by Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djurić to Cotonou on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. Djurić’s visit is historically significant, making him the first Serbian foreign minister to set foot on Beninese soil.
During a high-level meeting with his Beninese counterpart, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, the two nations signed a reciprocal visa exemption agreement.
The accord applies to holders of diplomatic, official, and service passports, aiming to ease institutional exchanges and foster stronger ties between the two governments.
Following the bilateral meeting, the ministers led an extended working session with their respective delegations, focusing on potential areas of cooperation.
At a joint press conference, Djurić commended Benin’s progress and hospitality, as well as the leadership of President Patrice Talon. He expressed optimism about deepening people-to-people connections, saying, “Serbs come to study and work in Benin, and vice versa.”
In response, Bakari highlighted the longstanding historical bond between African nations and the former Yugoslavia, particularly during the era of anti-colonial movements. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by Josip Broz Tito, Yugoslavia’s former president and a founding figure of the Non-Aligned Movement.
Bakari stressed the legacy of solidarity that continues to shape Benin’s diplomatic outlook.
The visit culminated in the official launch of the first political consultations between Benin and Serbia, jointly chaired by the two foreign ministers. This initiative marks the beginning of structured diplomatic dialogue and expanded cooperation between the two countries.
Observers view the visit as a meaningful step toward reinforcing South-South partnerships and creating new platforms for academic, political, and economic collaboration between West Africa and Eastern Europe.
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