Zeljko Joksimovic belives 'Azerbaijan is exotic country , with amazing poets'

Serbian representative for Eurovision Song Contest 2012 Zeljko Joksimovic almost every day reads about proud history of Azerbaijan, capital of which will host the contest.

"I am really looking forward to come in Baku and reading almost every day about Azerbaijan's proud history, about amazing poets like Nizami Ganjavi. I believe one unique experience in one beautiful and for most people still exotic country, as I heard so many nice things about it from some of my friends," Joksimovic said in an interview with Trend.

He said Azerbaijan and Serbia have very tight relations in last several years. "I do hope and strongly believe that this could be even better in the future," Joksimovic added.

He said Eurovision Song Contest is competition with long tradition and in many European countries it is definitely very popular so it is in some way opportunity to promote young and talented musicians.

"Eurovision experience can bring big popularity to the participant but every artist has to be aware that this kind of success has short period of duration," he said.

According to Joksimovic, the main reason for this year decision made by Serbian Broadcasting Corporation in November 2011 was experience that he has at the Eurovison Song Contest.

Joksimovic was presenter in 2004, twice he participated as composer and once as show moderator during the ESC in Belgrade in 2008.

"Eurovision Song Contest has strong impact to my career and personally I am very happy as well as proud to compete once again at the competition, especially as it is organized in Azerbaijan," he said.

Joksimovic said it is early to talk about his forthcoming show at the contest. "I will present the Song for 2012 on March 10th in Belgrade in the TV show and after I can tell you more about the visual identification," he said.

He believes that song is essential element of the show."I think that I will give good song and dignity promotion of my country, Serbia, in Baku. To be honest, I am expecting a lot from my participation," Joksimovic said. He said he is not afraid to take such a responsibility - to represent his country.

"It is big honor and positive responsibility. As I said it is not first time for me, so I can manage and handle all that it means. I experienced a lot of strange things during career and in this moment I am just focusing to present the Song in the best manner," Serbian participant said.

The 57th Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Baku Crystal Hall, which is under construction near the area of the State Flag. The contest semifinals will be held on May 22 and 24, while the Final - May 26.

Azerbaijan won the right to host the prestigious European song contest after the victory of Eldar Gasimov and Nigar Jamal (Ell / Nikki) at Eurovision 2011 in Dusseldorf, Germany last May.