Ouagadougou and Belgrade are strengthening their bilateral cooperation, with a strong focus on defense, security and training. During an official meeting in the Burkinabè capital, a Serbian parliamentary delegation led by Slavenko Ristic engaged in strategic discussions with high-ranking officials of Burkina Faso.

The visit, which took place on June 3, 2026, comes as both nations seek to expand mutually beneficial partnerships in sectors critical to regional stability and development.

Slavenko Ristic, who also serves as CEO of Tehnicki Remont Bratunac, a leading defense technology firm, praised Burkina Faso’s current policy direction and the leadership of President Ibrahim Traoré. « The President’s vision is clear and commands respect in Serbia, » he stated.

Serbian parliamentary delegation led by Slavenko Ristic, Chairman of the Defense and Security Commission, meets with Burkinabè officials in Ouagadougou

« Africa holds the future, and Serbia wants to be part of it, » Ristic declared, emphasizing the growing interest of his country in deepening ties with the continent. He added that Serbia is eager to contribute to strengthening Africa’s security architecture and fostering sustainable development.

In response, Burkina Faso’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation and Burkinabè Abroad, Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, highlighted the potential for expanded cooperation between the two nations. « This visit underscores Serbia’s growing commitment to Burkina Faso and reflects our shared determination to build stronger, results-driven partnerships, » he noted.

Minister Traoré also stressed that Burkina Faso is actively pursuing a policy of diversifying its international alliances, with a particular focus on Eastern European partners. « We are seeking reliable partners to create win-win opportunities that align with our strategic priorities, » he explained.

The Burkinabè delegation took the opportunity to present the country’s new national vision, aimed at modernizing governance and accelerating economic transformation. They invited the Serbian delegation to help raise awareness of African realities within European institutions, fostering greater mutual understanding and cooperation.

Slavenko Ristic, Serbian parliamentary leader and defense expert, during his working visit to Ouagadougou

Ristic welcomed the invitation and pledged to advocate for Burkina Faso and Africa at the highest levels in Europe. He emphasized the need to rebalance cooperation between Europe and African nations, ensuring that partnerships are more equitable and responsive to the continent’s needs.

This meeting signals a significant step forward in the diplomatic and economic rapprochement between Ouagadougou and Belgrade. It reflects Burkina Faso’s ongoing efforts to broaden its international alliances and secure strategic partnerships that support national security, economic growth and regional stability.