INDIA SERBIA RELATIONS -UPSC Current Affairs

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Context

State visit of President Droupadi Murmu to Serbia.

Details

President Smt Droupadi Murmu's visit to Serbia on June 7, 2023.
First visit by an Indian President to Serbia.
Special reception by President Aleksandar Vucic at Nikola Tesla Airport, Belgrade.
Guard of honor accorded to President Murmu.

Paying Respects to Mahatma Gandhi:

President Murmu travels to Gandijeva Street.
Pays respects at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi.

Interaction with Indian Community and Friends of India:

Community Reception hosted by Ambassador of India to Serbia, Shri Sanjiv Kohli in Belgrade.
President Murmu interacts with the Indian Community and Friends of India.

Historical and Bilateral Relations:

India and Serbia as ancient lands.
Importance of Non-Aligned Movement in defining India-Serbia relations.
Mutual understanding of core interests between India and Serbia.
President Murmu looks forward to interacting with Serbian leadership.

About Serbia

Geographical Location and Overview:

Located in southeastern Europe, Serbia is a landlocked country.
Shares borders with several countries, including Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Capital and largest city is Belgrade.
Official language is Serbian.

History and Culture:

Rich historical background dating back to prehistoric times.
Influenced by various civilizations, including Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian empires.
Significant cultural heritage, including medieval monasteries, fortresses, and archaeological sites.
Diverse cultural traditions and customs, influenced by Slavic, Balkan, and European elements.

Political System:

Serbia is a parliamentary republic.
President is the head of state, elected by popular vote.
The Prime Minister is the head of government.
Multi-party system.

Economy and Industries:

Emerging market economy with a mixed economic system.
Industries include automotive manufacturing, information technology, agriculture, energy, and tourism.
Major agricultural products: wheat, corn, sugar beets, sunflower seeds, fruits, and vegetables.
Significant natural resources, such as coal, copper, zinc, lead, and gold.

European Integration and Foreign Relations:

Serbia is a candidate country for European Union (EU) membership.
Pursuing reforms to align with EU standards and requirements.
Maintains diplomatic relations with countries worldwide.
Active member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and Council of Europe.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q) In the context of India's act far East policy, analyze how India can leverage the potential of the region aligning it's developmental goals. (250 words)

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