Selakovic Calls Non-aligned Movement Anniversary Conference Huge Recognition for Serbia

(BETAPHOTO/MILAN OBRADOVIC/DS)

Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selakovic said on Oct. 10 that a conference on the 60th anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement was a huge recognition for the state leadership and citizens of Serbia, stating that it was important that Serbia enjoyed observer status in the organization as Belgrade is mentioned in every conversation between member country representatives, along with the name Josip Broz Tito.

"That reputation is still alive. Those are friendly countries to us. It's important that we are recognized in that movement as a renowned and sovereign country and not only do they rejoice in our successes, they want cooperation on the political and economic levels," Selakovic told the Serbian Broadcasting Corporation.

Building Serbia's strength up and its international reputation, he said, can lead to many countries reversing their recognition of Kosovo's independence. "We have an exceptionally large potential for that. Our country has 14 embassies on the African continent alone. All of the other successors of the former Yugoslavia have a total of five," Selakovic said.

Belgrade is hosting the 60th anniversary conference of the Non-Aligned Movement on Oct. 11 and 12. More than 100 delegations are expected to attend, including some 40 foreign ministers.