Begovic: Serbia a free, independent state aspiring to progress, development

PARIS - In a speech at the Serbian embassy in Paris, Minister of Science, Technological Development and Innovation Jelena Begovic highlighted the cultural and historical value of Serbia's Statehood Day, as well as the centuries-long friendship between Serbia and France.

Begovic was on an official visit to Paris, during which she headed a Serbian delegation at the AI Action summit.

"Today, we remember our ancestors with pride and we continue to dream big. Today, Serbia is a free and independent state aspiring to progress and development. That freedom has made it possible for young scientists, researchers, innovators and intellectuals to dream big and conquer the world with know-how and ideas," a statement released by Begovic's ministry quoted her as saying.

With its 1835 Sretenje Constitution, Serbia demonstrated that it is a country of freedom, justice and love of humanity, Begovic said.

"That freedom-loving thought and the love of our Fatherland was also leading us as we were conquering our freedom in WWI together with our French friends and re-establishing the Serbian state. We have always dreamed the same dream, and we will continue to dream it - the dream of a free state that will be a framework for all our talented and intelligent citizens who will conquer the world with ideas, culture, visions and science," Begovic said.

A reception at the embassy was also attended by Serbian Ambassador Ana Hrustanovic, French Minister Delegate for European Affairs Benjamin Haddad, Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia President Marko Cadez and other Serbian and French officials.

Today, when we speak of AI, biotech, innovation and science, we speak of Serbia's progress and of positioning our country as one of the world's most developed countries, Begovic said.

"I want to thank our hosts from our embassy in Paris and our ambassador, our French friends, whose guests we have been in the past few days. And all of you, dear friends, who see Serbia as a free state and an equal partner. Happy Statehood Day! Long Live Serbia!" Begovic said in Serbian and in French.