Burkina Faso and Serbia deepen defense and security ties in Ouagadougou talks
High-level diplomatic engagement between Burkina Faso and Serbia has taken a significant step forward with a working visit to Ouagadougou by a Serbian parliamentary delegation led by Slavenko Ristic, head of the Defense and Security Commission in the Serbian Parliament and CEO of the defense technology firm Tehnicki Remont Bratunac.
The meeting, held on June 3, 2026, brought together Burkina Faso’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation, and Burkinabè Abroad, Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, and Deputy Minister Bêbgnasgnan Stella Eldine Kabré/Kaboré, to discuss avenues for strengthening bilateral cooperation in defense, security, and training.
During the discussions, Slavenko Ristic emphasized Serbia’s growing interest in Africa, calling the continent “the future” and affirming that his country is eager to be part of its development trajectory. He praised Burkina Faso’s strategic direction under President Ibrahim Traoré, describing the nation’s leadership as inspiring and worthy of global attention.
Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré highlighted the mutual benefits of diversifying Burkina Faso’s international partnerships, noting that Eastern European countries represent key opportunities for collaboration. He stressed the importance of forging win-win partnerships that align with Burkina Faso’s evolving diplomatic and economic priorities.
Slavenko Ristic committed to amplifying Burkina Faso’s voice in European policymaking circles, aiming to foster a more balanced approach to Africa-Europe cooperation. Both sides agreed that the meeting marked a pivotal moment in deepening ties between Ouagadougou and Belgrade, especially as Burkina Faso continues to pursue a proactive foreign policy focused on strategic diversification.
