At the opening of the 21st World Congress of Economists in Belgrade, Serbian President said the country must move in step with rapidly evolving technologies and artificial intelligence in order to remain competitive in a changing global economy. The event, hosted by the International Economic Association and the Serbian Association of Economists, has brought together hundreds of economists and experts from around the world.
Vučić argued that artificial intelligence represents one of the most significant technological transformations of modern times and emphasized the need for continued investment in digital infrastructure, data centres, education and innovation. It has been noted that countries which fail to adapt risk falling behind in both economic development and technological sovereignty.
The president also highlighted the growing connection between technological progress and energy security, warning that wider AI adoption will require substantial increases in computing capacity and electricity production. Serbia’s long-term goal should be to create conditions that encourage innovation while ensuring economic growth and new opportunities for future generations.
The World Congress of Economists, taking place in Belgrade from June 22 to 26, is focused on major global economic challenges, including technological change, geopolitical uncertainty and competing visions of economic development.

