China and Slovakia have taken a significant step in strengthening their bilateral relations, with President Xi Jinping meeting Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Beijing on Friday. The two leaders agreed to elevate their countries’ relationship to a strategic partnership, marking a new chapter in the 75-year history of diplomatic ties.
Prime Minister Fico is on an official visit to China from October 31 to November 5. During their meeting, President Xi highlighted the fruitful results achieved in bilateral cooperation over the years, emphasizing the tangible benefits brought to both peoples.
“The elevation of our bilateral ties to a strategic partnership meets the future development needs of both countries and will inject new and strong impetus into our cooperation,” President Xi stated.
To further enhance the relationship, President Xi proposed four key initiatives:
- Strengthening High-Level Exchanges: Both countries will maintain high-level communication, adhere to mutual respect and trust, treat each other as equals, and ensure mutual benefit. They will also consider each other’s core interests and major concerns.
- Expanding Practical Cooperation: China and Slovakia aim to deepen collaboration in new energy, transportation, logistics, infrastructure, and water resources management. The newly established inter-governmental cooperation committees will play a crucial role in aligning these efforts.
- Promoting Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges: The two nations will foster dialogue between political parties, local governments, youth, think tanks, and media. Utilizing platforms like the Confucius Institute, they aim to strengthen public support for their friendship. Notably, China has decided to grant a 15-day visa-free entry policy for Slovak citizens visiting China.
- Upholding True Multilateralism: China and Slovakia will work together to safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and uphold international law. They advocate for a multipolar world and inclusive economic globalization that benefits all, contributing to building a community with a shared future for mankind.
President Xi reaffirmed China’s commitment to its relationship with the European Union, noting that next year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the EU. He expressed hope that the new EU leadership will adopt active and pragmatic policies toward China, manage differences properly, and avoid politicizing economic and trade issues.
Prime Minister Fico expressed his appreciation for China’s achievements and emphasized Slovakia’s readiness to strengthen cooperation under the strategic partnership framework. He welcomed China’s decision to offer visa-free entry to Slovak citizens and looked forward to increased exchanges in various fields.
The elevation of China-Slovakia relations to a strategic partnership is expected to open new opportunities for collaboration, benefiting both nations and contributing to regional stability and development.
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President Xi, Slovak PM meet in Beijing, agreeing to elevate ties
cgtn.com
