"Serbia: Diplomacy and Art"

Distinguished Minister for Culture Mr. Marković
Ambassador Zvekic
Ladies and Gentlemen:

It is a pleasure to welcome you all for this exceptional event. I particularly thank the Permanent Mission of Serbia, led by Ambassador Zvekic, which today brings us two gifts. First, an impressive work of art by the renowned Serbian painter Marija Dragojlović. We, at the United Nations Office at Geneva, are grateful for this exceptional contribution to the Palais des Nations. And second, an interesting and thought-provoking exhibition, which pays tribute to Ivo Andrić, the writer and diplomat, who won the Nobel Prize for Literature 50 years ago.

Both of these contributions from Serbia are with us today in recognition of the importance and enduring relevance of multilateralism in international affairs. The first is donated on the occasion of the 90^th anniversary of Serbia’s involvement in international diplomacy in Geneva. And the second highlights the achievements of a renowned diplomat, skilled both in a career in foreign affairs and literature.

Ninety years ago, the Serbs were among the first nations to have accredited their Missions with Sir Eric Drummond, the first Secretary-General of the League of Nations. These were times of great hope and also great challenges for the international community, following the First World War. The League of Nations presented an opportunity for nations to come together with the goal of developing their cooperation in pursuit of peace and security for all.

This tradition of multilateralism has been maintained in Geneva from the days of the League of Nations. The Palais des Nations continues to serve as a platform for consensus-building, for cross-cultural dialogue, and for, of course, diplomacy. We appreciate Serbia’s commitment and contributions to this important work.

The legacy of the League of Nations shows that results are built over time, with commitment, patience and persistence. As we ourselves live through tumultuous times of great transformations, we need to keep these lessons in mind, to continue our work for a better world through multilateral action.

Ladies and Gentlemen:
I would like to again express my congratulations and sincere appreciation to the Permanent Mission of Serbia for their contributions today to the United Nations in Geneva. These will serve as a lasting reminder of the importance and value of multilateral diplomacy. And of how the United Nations of today works to achieve the same ideals and principles on which the League of Nations was founded over 90 years ago – of peace, of prosperity, and of a safer and more just world for all.

Thank you very much.