An honorary consulate of the Russian Federation has been established in the northern Serbian city of Novi Sad, according to local media reports issued Friday. Dusan Bajatovic, the director of Srbijagaz and a senior official within the Socialist Party of Serbia, has been appointed as the consul. The opening ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, 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 historical connection between Serbs and Russians, stating that while the people recognize a brotherhood, they possess limited knowledge regarding Russia’s culture, science, and natural beauty. He mentioned that the Russian Historical Society was established with assistance from Aleksandar Vulin, with the stated goal of preventing historical revisionism. Speaking about the relationship, Bajatovic asserted, “We believe in Mother Russia, we know that we are Orthodox, we know that we are Serbs and Russians.
And we know that we are brothers.” He further announced plans for enhanced cultural and academic ties, including student exchanges between Russia and Serbia. Bajatovic stated the objective was to promote knowledge from Russia, countering the perception that all culture originates from the West, thereby strengthening bilateral relations through the opening of another Russian school in Novi Sad.
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