Belgrade hosted a high-level commemorative meeting on September 1 marking the 65th anniversary of the First Conference of the Non-Aligned Movement, bringing together heads of delegations from 36 countries at the Palace of Serbia.
The meeting was opened by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Ugandan Vice President Jessica Alupo, whose country currently chairs the Non-Aligned Movement. Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Đurić welcomed the participants, stressing that Serbia remains committed to preserving the legacy of friendship, openness and dialogue associated with the Belgrade Conference.
During the gathering, Vučić said that the Non-Aligned Movement remains an important platform for multilateralism at a time of growing global divisions.
He highlighted the movement’s commitment to the principles of the UN Charter and expressed appreciation for the support Serbia receives from many Non-Aligned countries on issues concerning its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The anniversary also provided an opportunity for a series of bilateral meetings between Serbian officials and representatives of participating countries. Vučić held talks with officials from Ghana, Somalia, Angola, Lebanon, India and Cuba, discussing bilateral relations as well as regional and global issues.
The First Conference of the Non-Aligned Movement was held in Belgrade from September 1 to 6, 1961, bringing together leaders seeking to promote peaceful coexistence, independence and cooperation amid the Cold War divisions. Sixty-five years later, the commemorative meeting highlighted Belgrade’s historical role in the movement and its continued relevance in today’s changing international environment.
