In an exclusive interview with Ahram Online, Serbian Ambassador to Egypt Miroslav Šestović outlined an ambitious roadmap for a "new golden age" in bilateral relations, spearheaded by a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that entered into force in September 2025.
The interview coincided with Serbia’s National Day and Armed Forces Day, marking 118 years of diplomatic ties between the two nations. Following landmark presidential visits in 2022 and 2024, both countries have signaled a commitment to move beyond the nostalgia of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to "sync their futures" in an increasingly unpredictable global landscape.
As Serbia prepares to open its first African Chamber of Commerce office in Cairo, Ambassador Šestović explained why Egypt is positioned as a vital hub for Serbia’s economic expansion across the continent. From the "Skilled Labour Bridge" to Egypt’s anticipated participation in the Specialized World Expo 2027 in Belgrade, the Ambassador detailed how the two nations are integrating their supply chains and energy strategies.
Ahram Online (AO): How would you describe the "strategic partnership" following the 2022 and 2024 presidential visits?
Miroslav Šestović (MS): Two major presidential visits in three years have ushered in a new golden age. They vindicate the Egyptian adage that “the best friend is one unchanged by time or wealth.” Equally important, they reflect the fact that relations based on mutual respect and international law will persist despite the challenges of an unraveling world order. Our relationship has evolved from a traditional one to a proactive, multi-layered partnership. We are no longer just talking about history; we are committed to actively syncing our futures.
AO: How does the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) heritage influence modern trust?
MS: Presidents Tito and Nasser forged our original golden age during the struggle against colonialism. The NAM principles are part of our "diplomatic DNA," forming an enduring foundation for mutual understanding. Belgrade and Cairo share a common "political language" that promotes trust in today's unpredictable multipolar world.
AO: How do you coordinate on Middle East and Balkan security?
MS: By maintaining constant dialogue. Both nations act as sovereign anchors of stability in their respective regions. We coordinate efforts toward de-escalation, recognizing that regional security is interconnected. Instability in the Middle East invariably affects our region and vice versa.
AO: How is the principle of territorial integrity reflected in your cooperation?
MS: It is a red line. In international fora, we consistently support the UN Charter. We believe that respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty is the only way to prevent global chaos. Our joint statements serve as a firm reminder of this shared stance, which is vital if we are to overcome the challenges of an increasingly unstable world.
AO: What is the roadmap to reaching the $1 billion trade milestone?
MS: The catalyst is the Free Trade Agreement, which has been officially in force since 1 September 2025. The roadmap relies on economic diversification and the removal of trade barriers. The Serbian Chamber of Commerce is in the final stages of opening its Cairo office—our first in Africa. We estimate that trade will triple quickly as we move beyond traditional commodities toward high-tech services, defense cooperation, and specialized manufacturing.
We also intend to reopen direct flights between our capitals and increase flights to Hurghada. Additionally, we are establishing a Joint Business Council to facilitate direct B2B networking. All these elements reflect our ambition to turn Egypt into a hub for Serbian economic cooperation across Africa.
AO: Which sectors will see immediate growth following the FTA?
MS: Upon entry into force, nearly 50 percent of agricultural products and 30 percent of industrial products were exempted from customs duties. Over the next decade, the agreement aims for full duty-free status for more than 90 percent of all products. The deal also streamlines certification to reduce non-tariff barriers. We expect an immediate surge in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and industrial machinery. The FTA allows Serbian food products to reach Egyptian tables at a lower cost, while Egyptian industrial components can better integrate into Serbian supply chains.
AO: How can Serbia support Egypt’s food security?
MS: Serbia offers surpluses of wheat, corn, and sunflower oil. Given our strength in agricultural research, hybrid seeds are a strategic export. Joint research into seeds tailored for arid climates is a very promising field. We are not just looking to sell products; we want to help Egypt build resilient agricultural infrastructure by transferring knowledge in agrotechnology.
AO: Are there opportunities for energy collaboration?
MS: Absolutely. Serbia is rapidly diversifying its energy sources, and Egypt can be a pillar of this strategy, particularly in LNG, renewables, and green hydrogen. We are exploring technical cooperation to integrate these fuels into our industrial sector. Serbian engineering firms are also studying prospects to participate in Egypt’s grid modernization and digitalization efforts.
AO: How do the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE) and Serbia act as regional hubs?
MS: It is a "Gate-to-Gate" strategy. Serbian investors can use the Suez zone as a manufacturing base to access the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Conversely, Egyptian firms can utilize Serbia’s strategic position and our network of FTAs as a logistics hub to enter Balkan and EU markets duty-free.
AO: What framework is being built for Egyptian workers in Serbia?
MS: A framework for labour cooperation was established in July 2024. Our labour ministers are meeting regularly to activate a streamlined "Skilled Labour Bridge" to address Serbia's demand for a skilled workforce. This framework ensures robust legal protection and fair wages. It is a win-win: providing Serbia with talent for massive infrastructure projects like Specialized Expo 2027 and "Vision 2035," while offering Egyptian workers valuable international experience.
AO: What is the significance of the Specialized World Expo 2027 for bilateral ties?
MS: Our main focus in 2026 will be preparing for Expo 2027 in Belgrade, held under the theme “Play for Humanity.” It will serve as a major platform for innovation and culture. We are honoured by Egypt’s decision to participate with a national pavilion. With over 130 countries confirmed, it will set a record for participation. On a related note, Serbia was proud to support Dr. Khaled El-Enany’s candidacy for UNESCO Director-General, a testament to our strong multilateral coordination.
AO: Are there plans to increase air connectivity?
MS: Tourism demand is skyrocketing, especially since the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum. We are currently negotiating with national carriers to increase year-round flights from Belgrade to Hurghada and to resume the direct Cairo-Belgrade route. This is essential not only for holidaymakers but for the growing number of businesspeople travelling between our two capitals.
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