Đurić: Strengthening defence cooperation with Benin

28. Jul 2025.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Marko Đurić, began his official visit to the Republic of Benin with a meeting with the Minister of Defence of Benin, Fortunet Alain Nouatin. The two officials discussed the enhancement of bilateral cooperation in the fields of defence and security.

Minister Đurić described the visit to Benin as particularly significant, as it marks the first official visit by a Serbian Foreign Minister to this African country. The visit stands as a clear affirmation of Serbia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

The Serbian Foreign Minister noted that both sides confirmed their mutual interest in establishing concrete cooperation in the area of defence.

Speaking about Serbia’s position in the current foreign policy environment, Minister Đurić underlined that Serbia is a militarily neutral country and pursues a multi-vector foreign policy—an approach that enables collaboration with countries such as Benin.

In this context, he expressed Serbia’s readiness to explore avenues of cooperation with Benin, including the exchange of expertise and professional training.

Minister Đurić emphasized that the friendship between Serbia and Benin, rooted in the legacy of the Non-Aligned Movement, provides a solid foundation for further development of cooperation in defence and other key sectors.

He also extended an invitation to Minister Nouatin to visit Serbia and attend the “Partner 2025” International Arms and Military Equipment Fair in September.