By Our Parliamentary Reporter
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla today said that India and Serbia have been close friends and the two countries have traditionally enjoyed mutual trust and warmth. He recalled that the two countries are co-founders of the Non-Alignment Movement the two countries have traditionally enjoyed mutual trust and warmth.
Mr Birla said during his meeting with, Prime Minister of the Republic of Serbia, Ms Ana Brnabic in Belgrade today.
Mr Birla mentioned that India has been supportive of Serbia on crucial issues including Serbia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Mr Birla noted that Indian companies are taking keen interest in Serbia and they have invested in important sectors such as tractor assembly plants, IT Parks, food processing etc. Mr Birla noted that the bilateral trade is rising, though it is far below potential and, as such, the two countries need to strengthen economic ties further. He invited Serbia to participate in the World Food India and other business events in India. He also hoped that Serbia would participate at the 5th India-Europe 29 Business Forum (IE 29 BF) which will be held in New Delhi on 20-21 November 2019.
Mentioning that Serbians take lot of interest in Yoga and Indian culture, Mr Birla noted that International Day of Yoga was celebrated in 14 Serbian cities including in Belgrade this year. He appreciated the deep interest that Serbians take in Indian culture, arts and dances. Mr Birla also said that Serbia is emerging as a new destination for Indian film makers. He hoped that Indian our film makers would avail the opportunities to shoot more Indian films in Serbia.
Mr Birla acknowledged Serbia’s support India’s candidatures at WHO, World Customs Organization, International Civil Aviation Organization and India’s membership for NSG. He sought Serbia’s support for India’s re-election to the Council of International Maritime Organization, the election of which will be held in Nov-Dec 2019.