Serbia’s Ambassador to Portugal discusses cooperation, geopolitics, Lusophone ties, Expo 2027, and the human side of diplomacy.
Serbia and Portugal may sit at opposite ends of the European continent, but as Ambassador Ana Ilić explains in this interview, they are bound by a long friendship and a shared openness to deeper cooperation. As the two countries approach 145 years of diplomatic relations, established in 1882, Serbia’s Ambassador to Portugal reflects on a relationship marked by mutual respect, stable political dialogue, and significant untapped potential.
She discusses the most promising avenues for bilateral cooperation from information technology, innovation, and renewable energy to education, tourism, and culture,and the Embassy’s concrete efforts to connect Serbian and Portuguese businesses.
She also examines Serbia’s position in the current European and global geopolitical landscape, its foreign-policy balancing act, its ties with Lusophone countries such as Cape Verde, and its contribution to regional cooperation in the Balkans and Southeast Europe. Looking ahead to Expo 2027 in Belgrade, she outlines what the event represents for Serbia and the region and how Portugal and Portuguese-speaking partners can be involved.
Finally, she reflects on being named Best Accredited Ambassador in Portugal at the Raia Diplomática Awards 2025, the lessons of her career, and what motivates her daily work in representing Serbia in Portugal.
How would you describe the current state of bilateral relations between Serbia and Portugal, more than 140 years after the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1882?
We are very proud to be able to say that next year we shall be celebrating 145 years of diplomatic relations between Serbia and Portugal, two countries divided by almost the whole European continent, but united through their long-standing and friendly relationship. Over these more than 140 years, Europe and the international system have changed profoundly, as have both Serbia and Portugal, but the relationship between our two countries has remained characterised by mutual respect and a genuine willingness to maintain dialogue. Today I believe we have a very solid foundation on which to build an even stronger partnership.
Our political dialogue is good, marked by mutual respect and understanding between our two countries, despite the difference of positions we have when it comes to Kosovo-Metohija.
I would therefor describe our bilateral relations as positive and stable, with very good political contacts and considerable potential for further development. There is an important foundation of mutual understanding between our institutions, but I believe that we can make our relationship much more visible and dynamic at the level of our societies. It is particularly encouraging is that there is a genuine interest on both sides in discovering new areas of cooperation. My role as Ambassador is to help turn that interest into concrete initiatives and lasting partnerships. I believe that our economic, cultural, scientific and people-to-people ties still have considerable room for growth.
Despite the geographical distance, Serbia and Portugal are in many ways closer than they may initially appear. Both societies attach great importance to family, culture, tradition, hospitality and sport, and these common human values provide an excellent basis for further rapprochement.
I also believe that Serbia and Portugal have a particularly interesting opportunity at this moment. Serbia is a country deeply engaged with Europe and with its future, while Portugal has a valuable European, Atlantic and Lusophone perspective. The task ahead is therefore not to reinvent the relationship, but to give it greater substance and visibility.
Which areas of cooperation between the two countries do you consider most promising to deepen in the coming years?
Several areas come to my mind in which I see very significant potential. Above all economic cooperation, particularly in sectors such as information technology and digitalisation, in which Serbia has recorded significant results, as well as innovation and renewable energy, areas where we can learn from Portugal’s rich experience, as well agriculture, tourism, infrastructure and manufacturing.
Serbia has developed a strong technology and innovation ecosystem and has a highly educated workforce, while Portugal has accumulated considerable experience in areas such as digital transformation, renewable energy, tourism and services. There are therefore opportunities for cooperation based not only on trade, but also on investment, joint ventures and the exchange of expertise.
Equally important are science and education. What I have been working on and would like to see more of is direct cooperation between Serbian and Portuguese universities and research institutions, as well as greater mobility for students, researchers and young professionals. I am proud to say that the number of projects we cooperate in through EU formats, such as Erasmus, is growing every year. Results of such exchanges and investments are not always immediately visible, but they create lasting connections between societies. The same goes for the Serbian language course that we established last year at the University of Lisbon, which I am particularly proud of.
Tourism is another area with considerable potential. More Portuguese people should have the opportunity to discover Serbia, and more Serbian citizens should discover Portugal beyond the destinations they already know, Lisbon and Porto, to which our national carrier flied several times every week.
Let me also highlight culture and the creative industries. Since both Serbia and Portugal have strong cultural identities, and precisely because our traditions are different, cultural exchange can be particularly enriching.
Ultimately, I see the greatest opportunity in moving from occasional cooperation towards a more systematic network of partnerships.
How have you been working to bring the Serbian and Portuguese business communities closer together?
There have been several concrete initatives by our Embassy to connect the Serbian and Portuguese business communities.
One of them was the Embassy’s participation in Millennium Portugal Exportador 2025 in Porto, one of Portugal’s major events dedicated to exports and business internationalisation. Serbia had its own stand and used the opportunity to establish direct contacts with Portuguese companies. These contacts have already resulted in concrete expressions of interest in finding Serbian partners in areas such as marketing, public affairs and PR, media production and tourism, trade and sourcing, wine industry, as well as water and municipal infrastructure. The proposals range from identifying Serbian suppliers and distributors to import-export opportunities, joint projects and technological cooperation.
A very important platform for us has been, throughout my mandate, the Web Summit in Lisbon. Having been present for years, in 2025. Serbia presented around 60 startups with their own booths, while the Serbian delegation included approximately 300 innovators, entrepreneurs and company representatives. The importance of this sector for Serbia is illustrated by the fact that our software exports have exceeded 4.5 billion dollars.
I would also highlight our work on strengthening the Serbian-Portuguese friendship network and using it to develop local and business ties. From 28 to 30 May 2026, the Embassy participated in the first gathering of the Portugal-Serbia Friendship Association in Torres Novas. The programme went well beyond protocol: in addition to a reception with the Mayor, a dedicated business session brought together Serbian and Portuguese entrepreneurs to present their companies and explore opportunities for direct cooperation.
As part of the business programme, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia gave a comprehensive presentation of Serbia’s business and investment environment, providing Portuguese companies with an overview of investment opportunities in Serbia and the possibilities for establishing cooperation with Serbian partners. The programme also included a cultural component presenting Serbia’s historical and cultural heritage.
So, our focus has been very practical: creating opportunities for Serbian and Portuguese companies to meet directly, identify partners and investors, and turn institutional contacts into concrete business cooperation.
What is the role of culture, sport, and music in bringing the Serbian and Portuguese peoples closer together?
I would say that culture, sport and music are among the most effective forms of diplomacy because they speak directly to people, creating an immediate human connection.
Sport is a particularly natural bridge between Serbia and Portugal. Both countries have a strong sporting culture and a genuine passion for competition. Both countries have world-known athletes – Ronaldo and Đoković, who, given how much they contribute to the visibility of our countries, are among their best public diplomats. Although Serbia cannot claim to have much success in the football arena, many of our footballers have played in Portuguese clubs, and given Serbia’s internationally-recognized traditions in basketball, tennis and water polo, I encounter many fans of our sports here in Portugal.
Music is equally powerful. Serbian musical traditions and Portuguese traditions such as fado are distinct, but both demonstrate how music can express emotion and identity, even collective memory. Cultural differences do not necessarily separate people; very often, they create curiosity and encourage dialogue, which we also hope to boost by bringing our musicians to Portugal, where we shall be guest-country at the “Terras Sem Sombra” festival’s 2027 edition. Maybe the Portuguese then find something in our musical traditions to like as much as we like fado in Serbia!
How do you view Serbia’s position in the current European and global geopolitical landscape?
Serbia is a European country, geographically, historically and culturally, and, since our future is closely connected to the future of Europe, European integration remains a strategic priority for Serbia and an important framework for our political and economic development.
Yet we cannot disregard the fact that we live in a period of profound geopolitical transformation. Many things are in flux: the security environment in Europe has changed and economic relationships are being reassessed, while issues such as energy security, technological sovereignty, migration and global connectivity have acquired new importance. That is why Serbia is doing its best to maintain relationships with a broad range of international partners. In today’s international environment, maintaining communication and the ability to engage with different actors is an important diplomatic instrument.
Also, the stability of the Western Balkans remains a fundamental priority for Serbia. Our region has a complicated history, and we are fully aware that peace and stability cannot be taken for granted, which is why dialogue and regional cooperation are so important to us.
Our objective is to protect Serbia’s national interests while remaining a constructive European partner, contributing to regional stability and pursuing our European path. We believe that diplomacy is particularly important precisely when international circumstances are difficult.
What challenges and opportunities does Serbia face in its foreign policy, particularly in balancing between the different spheres of influence?
Serbia has to navigate a rapidly changing European security environment while also addressing its own national priorities and maintaining relationships with a broad range of international partners, given the complexity of the current international environment.
This requires a foreign policy focused on dialogue and pragmatism, and based on a clear understanding of national interests. We believe that maintaining communication with different partners is important, particularly in a period in which international relations are becoming increasingly fragmented.
At the same time, Serbia’s European integration requires substantial and continuous work. It is not simply a geopolitical question; it involves reforms, institutional strengthening, economic transformation and alignment with European standards, which should yield concrete results to the benefit of all of our citizens.
That is why I see the European integration process not only as a foreign-policy objective, but also as an opportunity for Serbia to continue modernising its institutions and economy.
The challenge is to manage different relationships responsibly while ensuring that Serbia remains a predictable and constructive partner. In my view, diplomacy is precisely about creating space for cooperation even, or especially when complete agreement is not possible.
How do you characterize Serbia’s relationship with the Portuguese-speaking countries, especially Cape Verde?
We have traditionally maintained friendly relations with the Portuguese-speaking world, with Portugal playing an important role as a bridge towards the wider Lusophone community.
Our relationship with Cabo Verde is particularly interesting, and pretty emblematic of our relations with Luzophone countries of Africa. Diplomatic relations were established in 1976, and they have their roots in the longstanding contacts between Yugoslavia and the countries of the developing world, also within the framework of the Non-Aligned Movement. There is a strong historical dimension to our relationship, which I see as a great rock from which to look towards the future and identify new areas of practical cooperation.
During my various visits to Cabo Verde, which I am always very happy to return to, I had the opportunity to meet with representatives of several institutions and to see first-hand the potential that exists in areas such as tourism, agriculture, culture, education and sport.
Education can be an especially powerful bridge. Serbian scholarship and academic programmes have already helped create links between young people from our countries. “World in Serbia” scheme shall bring several new students to Serbia this year, which I am very proud of. These contacts often survive for decades and create networks that later become valuable in diplomatic, academic and economic relations.
I also expect our political and parliamentary cooperation to intensify, following a meeting between our foreign ministers during the 81st UNGA session, as well as the creation of the first-ever parliamentary friendship group with Serbia in Cabo Verde’s parliament.
Let me add that Portugal is quite important in this context, since the fact that we are here in Lisbon gives us a valuable opportunity to understand the Lusophone space better and to develop connections that extend beyond the bilateral Serbia–Portugal relationship.
What contribution can Serbia make to strengthening regional cooperation in the Balkans and Southeast Europe?
Serbia has both an interest and a responsibility to contribute to regional stability and cooperation. Our geographical position means that we are closely connected with virtually every major development in Southeast Europe.
Practical cooperation, I have always believed, is the most effective approach, and that is exactly the approach Serbia has been practicing. Connectivity, infrastructure, trade, energy, tourism, education and the free movement of people can create tangible benefits and, at the same time, build confidence among countries that have historically experienced periods of tension, yet which have to cooperate if they are to develop.
Economic cooperation is particularly important. When companies from neighbouring countries work together, when people travel, study and invest across borders, not only do societies become increasingly interconnected, but economies benefit greatly as well.
Serbia also supports initiatives aimed at strengthening regional economic cooperation and bringing the Western Balkans closer to the European economic space, and proves it regularly by participating in numerous regional platforms and fora, facilitating closer cooperation.
For me, regional cooperation is not an alternative to European integration. On the contrary, one could say that a more connected and prosperous Western Balkans can contribute to a stronger and more stable Europe.
Expo 2027 in Belgrade is already being prepared. What does this event represent for Serbia and for the region?
EXPO2027, which shall bring over 140 countries from all over the world to Belgrade next summer, is an exceptional opportunity for Serbia and for the entire Western Balkans as well, as it will place our region at the centre of international attention.
The theme, “Play for Humanity – Sport and Music for All”, is particularly appropriate because of a topic we discussed in this interview, about sport and music being universal languages, bringing together people of different nationalities, generations and cultural backgrounds.
For Serbia, EXPO is also an opportunity to demonstrate the transformation that has taken place in the country and to present our capabilities in areas such as innovation, technology, culture, infrastructure and creative industries. On the other hand, I would not like EXPO to be seen simply as an exhibition, since its real value lies in the relationships that it can create — between countries, businesses, universities, cultural institutions and people. I hope that the legacy of EXPO2027 will be measured not only in infrastructure, but also in the partnerships and friendships that emerge from it.
For the region, it is also an important opportunity to demonstrate that Southeast Europe is capable of hosting major international events and contributing actively to global conversations about the future.
How do you intend to involve Portugal and the Portuguese-speaking partners in this Expo 2027 project?
EXPO, especially given its theme, naturally creates opportunities for Portugal and Lusophone countries, given their strong traditions in sport, music and cultural creativity. But I would also like to see participation in areas such as innovation, education, tourism, technology and business.
Portugal and the Lusophone countries have an important contribution to make to EXPO2027, and I very much hope that we will see a strong and visible presence from them in Belgrade. Not only that – I hope relations established in Belgrade will result in cooperation that continues beyond EXPO itself. An exhibition can last three months, but a partnership between two universities, two companies or two cultural institutions can last for decades.
For that reason, I see Expo 2027 as an opportunity not only to invite Portugal to Belgrade, but also to deepen the relationship between Serbia, Portugal and the wider Lusophone community.
What message would you like to leave for those who do not yet know Belgrade and may visit the city in 2027?
My message would be very simple: come to Belgrade with an open mind and allow the city to surprise you, which it most certainly will!
Belgrade is a city with a very long history, but it is also young and energetic, constantly changing. It is a city shaped and defined by the meeting of different cultures and civilisations, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, music and everyday life.
The confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers is one of the city’s most beautiful features, but what I know visitors remember most, as my friends from abroad keep telling me, is its atmosphere and the hospitality of its people.
EXPO2027 will provide an excellent reason to visit Belgrade, but I hope visitors will take the opportunity to go beyond it and discover Serbia itself, the cultural heritage, nature, food, wine and music we are known for.
To Portuguese visitors in particular, I would say: come and discover a European country that you may know less well than some of your traditional destinations. I hope you will arrive as visitors and leave as friends and with a desire to return.
You were recognized as the Best Accredited Ambassador in Portugal at the second edition of the Raia Diplomática Awards. What does this recognition mean to you?
I received the recognition with great gratitude and a strong sense of responsibility. For me, it is not simply a personal award. I see it as recognition of the work that the entire Embassy team has been doing to strengthen the relationship between Serbia and Portugal.
What makes the recognition particularly meaningful to me is that it comes from a Portuguese institution and reflects an appreciation of the importance of Serbia–Portugal relations.
I also see such recognition as an encouragement to continue. Diplomacy is a long-term profession. You may not always see the results of your work immediately, but every conversation, every new contact and every successful initiative can contribute to a stronger relationship in the future.
What lessons or experiences from your career path do you consider most decisive for the work you carry out in Portugal?
One of the most important lessons my diplomatic career has taught me is that international relations ultimately depend on people.
Of course, diplomacy involves institutions, agreements, negotiations and formal positions. But behind all of these are individuals who have to communicate, understand one another and, in many cases, build trust over a long period of time.
I have also learned the importance of listening. Diplomacy is not simply about explaining your country’s position; it is equally about understanding the priorities, sensitivities and expectations of the other side.
Another important lesson is patience. Some diplomatic initiatives take years to produce results. A conversation that appears relatively small today can become the basis for a significant project in the future.
Working in Portugal has reinforced my belief in the importance of personal diplomacy. The more I travel around the country, meet Portuguese institutions and engage with different communities, the more I see how many opportunities exist for Serbia and Portugal to work together.
My experience has taught me that good diplomacy begins with respect and curiosity — respect for the other country and genuine curiosity about its people and its perspectives.
What motivates you most in the day-to-day work of representing Serbia in Portugal?
Since I am a firm believer that diplomacy is about people, what motivates me most, day in day out, is the possibility of creating connections — connections between people, institutions, businesses and cultures.
Representing one’s country is a great responsibility, but it is also a privilege. Every day offers an opportunity to explain Serbia better, to correct misconceptions where they exist, and, equally importantly, to listen and understand Portugal better.
My biggest reward and additional motivation at the same time is when I see a contact develop into something concrete: when a company begins cooperation with a Serbian partner, when students discover opportunities to study in each other’s countries, when artists collaborate, or when someone who knew very little about Serbia becomes genuinely interested in visiting. These may seem like small achievements, but diplomacy is often built precisely from these small achievements, and always depends on not discarding small steps towards a greater goal.
That, ultimately, is what motivates me: building relationships that can outlast any individual diplomatic mandate.
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