Dr Orlic expressed the expectation that the Forum would help raise the cooperation between Serbia and Italy, especially in the field of modern technologies, to an even higher level, as well as to further improve relations which, they jointly noted, are traditionally friendly.

The officials praised the dynamic political dialogue, as well as the recent visit of the President of the Council of Ministers Giorgia Meloni to Belgrade, who said that the Republic of Serbia is a country of strategic importance for Italy. Dr Orlic and Fontana also spoke of the possibilities for further development of investment and economic cooperation. The Assembly Speaker used the opportunity to point out the importance that further connection with Lombardy would have for our country, bearing in mind that it is one of the most successful regions in Europe.

Speaker Orlic was grateful for the support of Serbia's European path, as well as for understanding our views, pointing out that today, after several decades, Serbia is re-establishing scientific institutes, scientific research centres and working on the development of modern technologies.

Attilio Fontana stressed that support for our European path will continue. He said that, for Italy, the Republic of Serbia represents a reliable partner that, both politically and economically, occupies a central position and role in the Western Balkans. He expressed readiness to deepen cooperation and exchange experiences with our country in numerous areas. He also emphasised that he had the opportunity to speak with representatives of Italian companies in the Republic of Serbia, who expressed their satisfaction with the exceptional cooperation with our country’s institutions and the conditions in which they operate.

The meeting between Dr Orlic and Fontana was also attended by Jovan Palalic, who expressed his willingness to strengthen cooperation through the work of the Parliamentary Friendship Group with Italy, which he is the head of, and connecting the cities of Lombardy and the Republic of Serbia.