Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Beijing on Thursday, reaffirming commitments to deepen bilateral cooperation amid growing global economic uncertainties. The meeting marked a significant step in strengthening the 'ironclad friendship' between the two nations, as described by both leaders.
Xi emphasized China's dedication to expanding collaboration with Serbia under the Belt and Road Initiative framework, particularly in infrastructure development and digital innovation. 'Our partnership serves as a model of mutual respect and shared development,' Xi stated, highlighting recent progress on joint projects including a high-speed rail link between Belgrade and Budapest.
Vucic expressed appreciation for China's support in Serbia's economic modernization efforts, noting increased Chinese investments in renewable energy projects and artificial intelligence research centers across the Balkan nation. The leaders also discussed enhanced cultural exchanges, with plans to establish new Confucius Institutes in Serbia and reciprocal visa-free travel arrangements.
The dialogue concluded with agreements to coordinate positions on international platforms such as the United Nations and WTO, while maintaining neutrality on sensitive geopolitical issues. This meeting coincides with the 10th anniversary of the China-Serbia strategic partnership, signaling renewed momentum for cross-continental collaboration between Asia and Europe.
