The Maltese-Serbian Community (MSC), a non-profit organisation, hosted a gathering to celebrate its fifth anniversary at Sliema Pitch.
There was a considerable turnout for the event, including founders of the organisation, the Prime Minister’s special envoy Alex Sceberras Trigona, Robert Arrigo and honorary consul of Montenegro Alfred Barthet.
Ambassador in Rome, Ana Hrustanovic, delivered a supportive message through Skype.
The organisation was established with the aim of strengthening ties between the Serbian and Maltese communites, especially those residing permanently in Malta.
“We founded this society five years ago. “It is useful because there are a lot of Yugoslavs who feel the need to coalesce and find a society of friendship with a Maltese counterpart,” Dr Sceberras Trigona said.
“I’m glad the community has people from both sides of Parliament and that this isn’t a political issue,” he added.
Robert Arrigo, former mayor and director of Arrigo and Sons, has been supporting the community in many ways and offering employment to its people.
“Your community is an example to other communities,” he said. “The Serbian community has integrated exceptionally well locally.”
Organisation president Predrag Andrejevic introduced the recent collaboration with two lawyers offering legal services in family and employment law.
The organisation also announced the establishment of a new Branko-Bane Djoric Fund to offer aid to its members in case of sudden death in the family.
Last year, MSC raised €5,500 in aid of flood victims in Serbia.
The MSC website (msc-malta .org) provides information on how to become a member, supporting the community and events.
Musicians Sasa Ognjanovic and Red House Blues Band entertained the guests.