Reception on the occasion of Statehood Day of the Republic of Serbia and Serbian Armed Forces Day – February 17, 2025

The event opened with a video message from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Mr. Marko Đurić. This was followed by speeches from H.E. Mr. Danijel Apostolović, Ambassador of Serbia to the EU; H.E. Mr. Aleksandar Tasić, Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium; H.E. Mr. Branimir Filipović, Ambassador to NATO; and Colonel Milan Ranković, Military Envoy to NATO and the EU.

Held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, the reception brought together approximately 400 distinguished guests. Among them were ambassadors and permanent representatives of EU member states—including Italy, Greece, Bulgaria, Hungary, Slovenia, and France—as well as heads of missions to the EU from countries such as Montenegro, North Macedonia, Georgia, Moldova, Monaco, Liechtenstein, and the Vatican. The event was also attended by Members of the European Parliament, representatives of the European Commission, the European Council, the Committee of the Regions, and the European Economic and Social Committee. In addition, prominent figures from Brussels’ scientific, academic, and business communities, along with members of the Serbian diaspora, contributed to the celebratory occasion.

The evening featured a cultural and artistic performance by the ensemble Đurđevak from Antwerp. Guests also viewed short promotional films showcasing “EXPO 2027” and Serbia’s tourism potential. The reception concluded with a rich selection of traditional Serbian cuisine and beverages, which was warmly received by all attendees.