(ANSA) - BELGRADE, OCTOBER 29 - The Environment Ministers of Italy and Serbia, Sergio Costa and Goran Trivan, signed today a Memorandum of Understanding in Belgrade on strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the protection of the environment and the action against the negative effects of climate change. "This Memorandum represents the beginning of a common path, not the end," said Minister Costa to journalists immediately after the signing of the document, which took place after a meeting with Trivan in the Serbia Palace, the imposing government building that hosts official meetings, conferences, and events of international importance. "We intend to structure our relationship with Serbia - added Costa -, Italy has always been close to Serbia and has always supported the country, and intends to do so even in protecting the environment". Through today's agreement, Costa pointed out, "a path of mutual support begins" in the field of environmental defense, with the provision of data and know-how. Minister began his visit to Serbia yesterday, visiting with his colleague Trivan the Fruska Gora National Park, north of Belgrade, and the historic town of Sremski Karlovci. A collaboration agreement was signed yesterday between the Sila and Djerdap National Parks. (ANSA).