An honorary consulate of the Russian Federation was opened in the northern Serbian city of Novi Sad, according to local media reports on Friday. Dusan Bajatovic, director of Srbijagaz and a senior official of the Socialist Party of Serbia, has been appointed as the consul. The opening ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including Patriarch Porfiry, the Russian Ambassador to Serbia, Aleksandr Botsan-Kharchenko, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko, Speaker of the Novi Sad Assembly Dina Vucinic, and former minister Aleksandar Vulin.
During the event, Bajatovic emphasized the strong cultural connection between the Serbs and Russians, stating, “Serbs know that Russians are their brothers.” However, he noted that much remains unknown about Russia’s culture, natural beauty, and scientific advancements. He also mentioned that the Russian Historical Society was established with the assistance of Aleksandar Vulin, an organization aimed at preventing historical revisionism. Bajatovic further expressed a desire to foster deeper ties between the two nations, announcing plans for student exchanges and cultural cooperation.
He stated that opening another Russian school reflects an interest in Russian knowledge, challenging the perception that all culture originates from the West. The initiative, according to Bajatovic, aims to demonstrate Russia’s proximity and relevance to the people of Novi Sad.
Topics: #consulate #novi #sad
I wonder what the long-term significance of this new consulate relationship will be for the region.