MOHAMMAD GHAZAL (BELGRADE)

Serbia is looking to replicate the UAE's success in utilising AI across various industries, including defence, healthcare, energy, and agriculture, with a focus on boosting efficiency and innovation as the ever-growing relations are reaching new heights, said Prime Minister Miloš Vučević.

In an exclusive interview with Aletihad in Belgrade, the Premier said that 12 years ago, Serbia began strengthening its bilateral relations with the UAE, a development he described as initially unexpected but quickly recognised for its potential.

Prime Minister Vučević voiced appreciation for the UAE's substantial support, which has led to concrete results in economic development and other areas.

He emphasised that the cooperation spans multiple sectors, including politics, defence and geopolitics. The UAE and Serbia have strengthened ties through joint projects in fields of defence, cyber security, combatting terrorism, and other arenas that are crucial given the current global situation.

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Growing Ties

He added that Serbia is keen to benefit from the UAE's advanced experience in AI, with applications spanning across military, economic, energy, and healthcare sectors.

"Abu Dhabi is really successful in this regard and I believe that could be another bridge between two countries," Vučević added.

Furthermore, UAE investments have had a significant positive impact on Serbia's economy, he said.

Emirati companies have invested in agriculture, utilising Serbia's natural resources and contributing to essential infrastructure projects, including water supply, sewage systems, and waste management. These investments align with Serbia's environmental goals, especially in relation to the green agenda and climate change.

"Serbia is eager to learn from the UAE's expertise in these areas to foster sustainable growth. As relations between the two countries continue to improve, there is a strong potential for further collaboration in sectors like transportation and logistics. Our relations are excellent and they will continue to become better and better," Vučević said.

More Private Sector Involvement

The private sector plays a key role in driving economic growth, supported by the strong political foundation built by the two countries' leaders, the PM said.

With excellent bilateral relations, direct flights, and a visa-free regime, the private sector now has the opportunity to capitalise on these favourable conditions, he said, adding that the state has provided the necessary tools, and it is now up to businesses to leverage these opportunities to expand and thrive.

“State-level support serves as the fuel, and the private sector is the engine, driving growth. The private sector has to seize this opportunity as both nations enjoy excellent bilateral relations,” Vučević explained.

It is essential to organise more business meetings and forums between the two countries to foster direct contact and strengthen cooperation, the Premier said, adding that holding regular events, including visits by high-level representatives, will provide opportunities for mutual collaboration and help promote shared projects.

Stressing that Serbia offers a friendly and lucrative business environment, he said that the country has successfully attracted two-thirds of all direct foreign investments in the Western Balkans over the last five years.

This, he said, reflects Serbia's growing reputation as a favourable investment destination, supported by strong credit ratings and positive evaluations from financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Serbia, Vučević stressed, aims to strengthen its relations with Abu Dhabi and is keen on having intensified ties with the UAE.

"Abu Dhabi can always count on Serbia as a reliable partner, friend and brother," he added.