SERBIA AND UKRAINE PLEDGE CLOSER ECONOMIC TIES, EYE FREE TRADE DEAL - AL JAZEERA

During his first visit to Serbia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and announced a joint pledge to deepen economic cooperation and pursue a free‑trade agreement between the two countries. The meeting took place in Belgrade, underscoring Serbia’s role as a pro‑Russia ally amid ongoing tensions in the region.

According to the Al Jazeera report, Zelensky and Vučić discussed expanding trade, investment and technology partnerships. While the specific terms of a potential free‑trade pact remain under negotiation, both leaders emphasized the importance of boosting bilateral trade volumes and reducing tariffs. The meeting was part of a broader diplomatic outreach by Serbia, as noted by Euronews, which highlighted the host nation’s diplomatic signaling to Brussels and Moscow.

Serbia’s pro‑Russia stance has made it a key partner for Ukraine’s efforts to secure alternative markets and support amid the conflict with Russia. Strengthening economic ties could provide Ukraine with new trade routes and investment opportunities outside the Western bloc.

• Zelensky’s first visit to Serbia marks a significant diplomatic engagement with a Russia‑friendly state.
• Both leaders pledged to enhance economic cooperation and explore a free‑trade agreement.
• Serbia’s outreach signals its diplomatic balancing act between Western and Russian interests.

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