Consul General of the Republic of Serbia in New York, Vladimir Božović, PhD, held his first official meeting with Aissata M.B. Camara, Commissioner for International Affairs of the City of New York

Commissioner Camara emphasized that she is aware of the significance and role of the Consulate General of the Republic of Serbia and expressed her satisfaction that, in her capacity, she will continue to support initiatives that contribute to the development of diplomatic activities in the city.

Consul General Božović presented several proposals for joint projects and activities. Special emphasis was placed on the preservation and promotion of Nikola Tesla’s legacy as one of humanity’s greatest minds, including initiatives for joint programs that would further introduce Tesla’s life and work to the broader American and global public. One of the proposals was the installation of a monument to Nikola Tesla in Manhattan. Božović highlighted that this project holds exceptional cultural and symbolic significance, both for the Serbian community and for New York, the city where Tesla worked and left a lasting impact. Commissioner Camara fully supported the continuation of the dialogue and expressed the city’s readiness to provide institutional support for this initiative. She emphasized that Nikola Tesla is an icon of both New York and humanity at large, as well as a symbol of science and innovation, whose work has global significance, not only for Serbia, but also because it enabled cities like New York to become centers of modern technology and innovation. With that, the Commissioner gave her consent and support to proceed with the project.

Božović expressed deep concern regarding the tragic death of Charles Kirk, an American political activist and long-time friend of Serbia, and strongly condemned all forms of politically motivated violence. It was proposed that, in cooperation with the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York, a dignified memorial and commemorative event be organized. Commissioner Camara supported this proposal and stressed that the protection of human rights and the condemnation of violence are of paramount importance for the City of New York.

Continuation of the Mental Health Initiative - During the meeting, Vladimir Božović called for the further development of the mental health panel, which was launched by the Consulate in cooperation with professional psychotherapists. He emphasized that this topic is highly sensitive and important for the immigrant community, representing a fundamental need to carefully address mental health within the local community. It was agreed that, in cooperation with the city administration, a new cycle of public discussions and educational panels would be launched to draw attention to this extremely important issue.

Božović also welcomed the City of New York’s initiative to support the diplomatic community in understanding administrative changes, procedures, and support related to immigrants. He underscored the importance of continuing such dialogues, called for more frequent activities, and expressed his readiness to provide full support to the city in all future initiatives on this matter, emphasizing that cooperation between city institutions and diplomatic missions is crucial for strengthening the community and improving the management of immigrant-related issues.

Commissioner Camara highlighted that she highly values and follows Vladimir Božović’s engagement and his role in strengthening the diplomatic and cultural ties between Serbia and the United States. She particularly emphasized the importance of the Serbian community in New York and its contribution to the cultural and social life of the city, noting that collaboration with the Serbian diplomatic mission is an example of successful action that contributes to the development of the international community, as well as the importance of Dr. Božović’s role within New York’s diplomatic community, particularly in the framework of the Society of Foreign Consuls.

The meeting once again confirmed the excellent relations between the Consulate and the Office of International Affairs, as well as their shared commitment to increasing Serbia’s visibility, its contributions to global science and culture, and strengthening cooperation through events that connect diplomacy, science, and humanistic values.