Non-Aligned Movement 50th Anniversary Commemorative Meeting in Belgrade
In September 2011, the city of Belgrade became a focal point for international diplomacy as it hosted the 50th Anniversary Additional Commemorative Non-Aligned Meeting. This significant gathering of foreign ministers served as a tribute to the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM)—a forum of nations that sought to maintain independence from the major power blocs during the Cold War.
The event was not merely a celebration of history but a strategic gathering of global leaders to discuss contemporary geopolitical challenges and reinforce the bonds between member states.
Key Facts
- Dates: September 5–6, 2011.
- Location: House of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, Belgrade.
- Chair: Boris Tadić, President of Serbia.
- Attendance: Approximately 600 delegates from over 100 national delegations.
- Historical Significance: Held in the same venue that hosted the 1st NAM Summit in June 1961.
Historical Context and Origins
The initiative for this commemorative meeting was proposed by Serbian President Boris Tadić during the 15th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement held in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. The choice of Belgrade as the host city was deeply symbolic; the House of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia had previously served as the Parliament of Yugoslavia, the venue for the movement's inaugural summit from June 5 to 12, 1961.
[no image]
Diplomatic Highlights and Contributions
During the opening ceremonies, several key leaders emphasized the enduring legacy of the movement. Mohamed Kamel Amr, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt, described the meeting as an indicator of the movement's strength and expressed gratitude toward its historic founders.
President Boris Tadić highlighted Serbia's ongoing commitment to NAM countries through two primary initiatives: increasing its contribution to UN peacekeeping operations within member states and the establishment of the "World in Serbia" scholarship fund, which provides hundreds of students annually the opportunity to study at the University of Belgrade.
Adding to the sentiment of historical continuity, Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Brunei, remarked that Belgrade remains forever linked to the Non-Aligned Movement.
Geopolitical Discussions and Participation
Beyond the commemorations, the meeting served as a platform for discussing sensitive political issues, including the precedent of Kosovo's independence. The event saw a diverse range of participants, including several former Yugoslav republics.
Croatia expressed its intent to actively participate, noting that its pursuit of European Union accession would not hinder its relations with NAM member states. Other former Yugoslav states in attendance included Slovenia, Montenegro, and the FYR Macedonia. Additionally, guest European nations such as Hungary, Finland, Spain, and Cyprus attended. Notably, Cyprus had been a member state alongside Yugoslavia until 2004.
On the international stage, the Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs utilized the gathering to urge all former Yugoslav countries that had not yet recognized Palestine as an independent country to do so.
Meeting Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Serbia |
| Venue | House of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia |
| Key Figures | Boris Tadić, Mohamed Kamel Amr, Prince Mohamed Bolkiah |
| Scale | 100+ delegations, ~600 delegates |
| Primary Focus | Commemoration, Kosovo independence, and international cooperation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the meeting held in Belgrade?
Belgrade was chosen because the House of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia (then the Parliament of Yugoslavia) hosted the very first Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in June 1961.
Who proposed the 50th anniversary meeting?
The meeting was proposed by the President of Serbia, Boris Tadić, during his participation in the 15th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt.
What was the "World in Serbia" scholarship fund?
It is a fund established by Serbia to enable hundreds of students from Non-Aligned Movement countries to study at the University of Belgrade each year.
Which European countries attended as guests?
The guest European countries included Hungary, Finland, Spain, and Cyprus.
What political issues were discussed during the event?
Key discussions included the precedent of Kosovo's independence and the recognition of Palestine as an independent country.