Burkina Faso and Serbia deepen ties in defense and security cooperation
Ouagadougou and Belgrade are taking concrete steps to strengthen bilateral relations, with a focus on defense, security, and training. On June 3, 2026, a high-level Serbian parliamentary delegation led by Slavenko Ristic met with Burkina Faso’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation, and Burkinabè Abroad, Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, and his deputy, Bêbgnasgnan Stella Eldine Kabré/Kaboré.
The visit, part of a working mission to Burkina Faso, aimed to explore new avenues for cooperation between the two nations. Both sides highlighted the potential for collaboration in sectors critical to regional stability and development.
During the discussions, Slavenko Ristic, who also serves as CEO of the defense technology company Tehnicki Remont Bratunac, praised Burkina Faso’s current strategic direction and the leadership of President Ibrahim Traoré. « The President’s vision resonates strongly and is widely admired in my country, » he remarked.
The Serbian parliamentarian also emphasized Serbia’s ambition to play a more active role on the African continent. « Africa holds the key to the future, and we are determined to be part of that future, » he stated.
Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré reciprocated the enthusiasm, calling the visit a clear sign of Serbia’s growing interest in Burkina Faso. He noted that both countries have significant but underutilized opportunities for partnership. « We are actively seeking partners with whom we can build mutually beneficial collaborations, » he explained.
The Burkinabè foreign minister also shared Burkina Faso’s strategy of diversifying international partnerships, with a particular focus on Eastern European countries. He urged Serbia to help bridge the gap in understanding between African realities and European policymakers.
In response, Slavenko Ristic committed to advocating for Burkina Faso and Africa within European decision-making circles, with the goal of rebalancing cooperation between Europe and African nations. The meeting underscores a broader effort by Burkina Faso to expand its strategic partnerships globally.
