The captivating Garden of The Residence of Princess Ljubica, one of the oldest preserved buildings from the first reign of Prince Miloš Obrenović, opened its doors for the annual Diplomacy & Commerce Summer Party on June 21, 2023
Nestled picturesquely in the heart of Belgrade, across the Serbian Orthodox cathedral church of St. Michael the Archangel, whose church bells harmonized with the occasion, the event marked the convergence of diplomats, government officials, and influencers from various fields.
The distinguished gathering also included representatives from the media, business world, as well as well-known figures from Serbia’s vibrant cultural and public life. These parties are an inherent part of Serbian tradition, fostering an atmosphere of unity and mutual respect among attendees while showcasing Serbia’s rich cultural heritage.
Celebrated on the first day of summer, which coincides with World Music Day, this year’s event featured a special musical treat. Renowned musician Aleksey Juzhin, who graced theaters and clubs in Moscow before war circumstances changed his path, performed as the night’s highlight.
Juzhin’s musical journey, which has seen him traverse Europe and Africa, has currently found him in Serbia. Known for his enchanting performances on the streets and squares of Subotica, Belgrade, and Novi Sad, he brings a slice of the vibrant street culture into this evening’s refined setting.
“Many excellent artists from Russia and Ukraine came to our country a hundred years ago. We believe it is our duty to help them enrich our society, just as they did back then,” remarked Mr Robert Čoban, President of Color Press Group. This notion was underscored recently, as the Ballet of the National Theater celebrated its 100th birthday, marking the arrival of ballet to Belgrade by the White Russians post the October Revolution.
As the host, Mr Čoban extended his gratitude to the evening’s sponsors, “Coca Cola” and the Zvonko Bogdan Winery. Their premium beverages further elevated the festive ambiance. “To all guests, members of the diplomatic corps, business community, figures from cultural and public life, and colleagues from the media, thank you for supporting “Diplomacy & Commerce” magazine. I wish you all enjoy tonight’s event and the summer ahead,” he said.
The Residence of Princess Ljubica, the location for this illustrious gathering, adds to the richness of the event. Erected in 1830 as a representative court of the Serbian sovereign dynasty Obrenović, it bears the name of Prince Mihailo Obrenović’s wife, Ljubica. Its permanent exhibit, “The Interiors of 19th-Century Homes in Belgrade,” showcases original furniture, numerous painting artworks, and portraits of rulers and prominent city families, offering a glimpse into Serbia’s illustrious past.
In blending music, culture, and diplomacy, the Diplomacy & Commerce Summer Party truly exemplifies the spirit of Serbian tradition, underlining its commitment to fostering understanding and unity among diverse fields and nations. The event serves as a perfect platform to celebrate and appreciate the richness and diversity that each participant brings to the cultural landscape of Serbia.
