Iran Signals Readiness to Elevate Strategic Cooperation with Serbia

TEHRAN (Iran News) The discussions, held as part of Iran’s 14th government’s technology-focused diplomacy agenda, aimed to strengthen ties between the two nations. Hashemi delivered an official message from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Vučić, emphasizing Iran’s commitment to deepening collaboration in communications, information technology, cutting-edge technologies, and artificial intelligence (AI).

“Iran and Serbia have long enjoyed robust relations, and today presents an opportune moment to further solidify this bond by advancing cooperation in diverse fields, particularly IT, communications, and AI,” Hashemi stated. He highlighted Iran’s readiness to expand partnerships in cybersecurity, e-governance, digital infrastructure, data transmission, and related areas to the highest level.

Addressing Vučić, Hashemi underscored Iran’s capabilities in AI, fifth-generation (5G) networks, digital infrastructure, and tech-driven startups, expressing Iran’s desire to forge a strategic partnership with Serbia. “By establishing joint research labs and sharing technical expertise, we can take significant steps toward technological advancement in the region,” he added. Hashemi also pointed to Iran’s vibrant startup ecosystem and knowledge-based companies, noting their potential to contribute to smart city projects and digital transformation initiatives.

Iran, he assured, is prepared to collaborate on training specialized workforces and sharing expertise in AI and cybersecurity. “We are confident that through knowledge exchange, joint meetings, and mutual support, we can unlock our latent potential for the sustainable development of both nations,” Hashemi concluded.

In response, President Vučić expressed gratitude for the message from President Pezeshkian and extended warm regards to his Iranian counterpart. “Iran is an influential and key player in Asia and the Middle East, and Serbia welcomes the expansion of relations with Tehran, particularly in communications and IT,” Vučić said. He revealed that he has tasked Serbia’s Minister of Information and Telecommunications with exploring cooperation with Iran in areas such as data transmission.

Vučić praised Iran’s advancements in space telecommunications, commending its achievements in designing, building, and launching remote-sensing and communication satellites. He welcomed the prospect of Serbia benefiting from Iran’s technical know-how in these fields. Additionally, noting Iran’s expertise in establishing fiber optic factories in several countries, Vučić expressed interest in leveraging this capacity for Serbia.

During the meeting, Hashemi also presented President Vučić with Pezeshkian’s message, which included Iran’s pledge to participate in the Expo 2027 event in Belgrade.

The meeting underscored both nations’ commitment to deepening ties, with technology and innovation at the forefront of their burgeoning strategic partnership.