Consulate General of the Republic Serbia in Chicago hosted a National Day of the Republic of Serbia Reception on February 14, 2013 at the Preston Bradley Hall of the Chicago Cultural Center, one of the most prestigious halls in Chicago.

The reception was attended by more than 350 guests, representatives of the government institutions of the state of Illinois and city of Chicago, members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives of Serbian organizations, businessmen and members of the diaspora. The reception was also attended by dignitaries of the Serbian Orthodox Church, led by the pontiff of New Gracanica-Midwestern Diocese of America, Bishop Longin and Abbot Methodius of the Monastery of Chilandar.

The official part of the festivities began by reading of letters of congratulations  from Pat Quinn, Governor of the State of Illinois, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan; Brendan Reilly, Alderman of the 42nd Ward, where Consulate General of R. Serbia is located. Maria Pappas, Cook County Treasurer also sent the letters of congratulations.

The gathering was then addressed by Consul General Desko Nikitovic who greeted the guests. At the beginning of his speech Mr. Nikitovic introduced the guests to the symbolism of the date celebrated as Serbian National Day and stated our most important foreign policy priorities, particularly underscoring the question of Kosovo and positions of the Republic of Serbia regarding the resolution of this problem.

Referring to the history of relations with the United States, Consul General Desko Nikitovic also highlighted the fact that the two countries have had diplomatic relations for the last 132 years, and that but for a very brief historical moment, these relations were always friendly and allied, especially in both of the two great World Wars. Speaking about the importance of economic cooperation and the need for its further improvement, Desko Nikitovic stressed the importance of the appointment of the economic adviser to the Consulate General.

Reception continued with an artistic program,  with the performances of the male mezzo-soprano Nicholas Marotta and priest Milovan Gogic; they performed a number of modern and traditional Serbian songs.

Organization of the reception was supported through the sponsorship of a great number of companies owned by Serbian nationals from the city of Chicago and the surrounding area.

The event was also attended by representatives of the Serbian- language media.