Serbia pledges support to Zambia amidst severe drought crisis

The Republic of Serbia has pledged significant support to Zambia as the country grapples with severe drought-induced challenges. President Alexander Vućić has announced plans to dispatch a delegation to Zambia to assess the situation firsthand and discuss possible avenues for assistance. 

This commitment follows discussions with Zambia’s Ambassador to France, Her Excellency Ms. Judith Mulenga, who highlighted the critical shortages of staple foods and energy due to the drought exacerbated by El Niño.

President Vućić reaffirmed the longstanding bilateral relations between Serbia and Zambia, dating back to Zambia’s independence era when Serbia was part of Yugoslavia. 

He extended a warm invitation to Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema to visit Serbia, aiming to revitalize high-level political dialogue between the two nations.

Ambassador Mulenga’s meetings with Serbian ministers and officials further underscored mutual goodwill to enhance cooperation across various economic sectors. 

Serbia’s Minister of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation, Dr. Jelena Begović, expressed commitment to fostering collaboration in climate change solutions through technology and scientific exchange. This initiative aims to address agricultural challenges exacerbated by climate change, crucial for Zambia’s food security.

Discussions also centered on expanding economic ties, with Serbia highlighting opportunities for knowledge transfer in agriculture, food production, pharmaceuticals, IT, energy, infrastructure, and education. 

Minister Adrijana Mesarović emphasized Serbia’s supportive business environment and potential for foreign investments, signaling optimism for enhanced collaboration with Zambia.

Zambia, looking ahead to the Expo Belgrade 2027 themed ‘Play for Humanity: Sport and Music for all’, aims to participate with its own pavilion, reflecting the growing cooperation between the two nations. 

This global event under the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) is expected to draw participants from 120 countries and 10 international organizations, showcasing Serbia’s burgeoning role in education, culture, and innovation.

This is contained in a statement issued by  Naomi Mweemba First Secretary Press Embassy of Zambia, Paris