First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia Ivica Dacic received today Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop.

In the meeting, both sides underlined the significance of further promotion of political dialogue at all levels, as well as importance of fostering the traditionally good and friendly relations and promoting cooperation in areas of mutual interest. It was emphasized in the talks that this was the first visit by a Head of Australian diplomacy to the Republic of Serbia after more than thirty years.

It was estimated that there was a need to deepen and broaden the scope of economic cooperation in areas such as mine exploration and exploitation, investments, agriculture and tourism, as well as cooperation in sport, culture and other areas.

Minister Dacic informed the Australian side about the current situation in the dialogue with Pristina and Serbia's positions concerning the issue of Kosovo and Metohija, pointing to the need for consistent adherence to international law.

Considering the numerous Serbian diaspora residing in Australia, the Serbian side underscored its commitment to further promoting the status of the Serbian community in Australia, as an important factor in Serbia-Australia relations. An interest was expressed to further streamline procedures to apply for and getting an Australian visa for Serbian citizens.