Nikolić invites Russia, India to donor conference

Nikolić invites Russia, India to donor conference

Nikolić expressed his deepest sympathy to Russian ambassador over the massive floods that hit South Siberia over the weekend, and offered Serbia's assistance in rescue and relief efforts, the president's press service said.

Nikolić particularly thanked Russia for the significant support it provided to Serbia.

Speaking of prevention against natural disasters, Nikolić and Chepurin agreed that the Serbian-Russian emergency situations center in Niš should be enabled to operate at full capacity, noting that Russia has already allocated the funds for this purpose.

Based on the Russian proposal, the Center would be able to conduct flood-relief, firefighting and minesweeping operations, as well as personnel training programs, throughout the region.

Indian Ambassador Narinder Chauhan presented the embassy's message to Nikolić expressing the deepest condolences for the great loss that Serbia has suffered during the floods.

The embassy of India paid USD 100,000 on Friday into the special bank account set up by the government of Serbia to help the flood victims, the message states.

Chauhan confirmed that India intends to take part in the donor conference and asked Serbia to list the currently most needed items.

Serbia is aware that the heaviest burden of recovery will have to be borne by the country itself, said Nikolić, and expressed hope that the donor conference for Serbia and Bosnia "will once again show the solidarity of the world."