An honorary consulate of the Russian Federation was recently opened in the northern Serbian city of Novi Sad, local media reported on Friday. Dusan Bajatovic, Director of Srbijagaz and a senior official of the Socialist Party of Serbia, has been appointed as the consulate’s consul. The opening ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Patriarch Porfiry, Russian Ambassador to Serbia Aleksandr Botsan-Kharchenko, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko, Novi Sad Assembly Speaker Dina Vucinic, and former minister Aleksandar Vulin.
During the event, Bajatovic emphasized the deep cultural ties between the Serbs and Russians, noting the shared Orthodox heritage. However, he also highlighted an area for development, stating that while the connection is acknowledged, there remains a need for greater public awareness regarding Russia’s natural resources, scientific advancements, and cultural depth. Bajatovic further discussed the role of the Russian Historical Society, which he stated aims to safeguard historical understanding.
He announced plans for enhanced bilateral cooperation, specifically focusing on student exchanges and cultural initiatives between Russia and Serbia. He expressed a desire to promote Russian educational knowledge, suggesting that establishing another Russian school would serve to introduce the population to Russian culture, thereby fostering closer ties between the two nations. These cooperative efforts aim to strengthen the relationship through academic and cultural exchange mechanisms.
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