In the presence of a large number of representatives from diplomatic, political, academic and cultural communities in London, an important anniversary in the relations between Serbia and the United Kingdom has been observed – 180 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Ambassador Ognjen Pribićević recalled that British Consul Hodges presented letters of credence to Prince Miloš Obrenović in Kragujevac in 1837, underlining the glorious moments in history of both nations who fought together in the First and Second World Wars committed to the same goals.
Fiona McIlwam, representing the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, underlined that what linked together the two States was not only shared history but also common values and interests. She pointed out that Serbia was a leader in the region in promoting stability and that the UK continues to support Serbia’s European path despite the Bregzit.
Sir John Randall, former Conservative Party MP, spoke of his frequent trips to Serbia, how he started studying Serbian language and literature and came to love Serbia. Dr. Svetozar Rajak, a history professor at the prestigious London School of Economy highlighted major phases in the development of Serbian/UK relations.