Chinese President, Xi Jinping and Serbian President, Aleksandar Vucic have reaffirmed the “ironclad friendship” between their countries during talks in Beijing.
They pledged deeper cooperation in infrastructure, technology, trade and cultural exchanges.
Xi said relations between the two nations had entered “a new chapter” following his 2024 visit to Serbia, describing the partnership as a model of state-to-state relations built on strong historical and practical foundations.
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“China supports Serbia in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions and stands ready to strengthen exchanges on governance experience,” Xi said.
During the visit, Xi awarded Vucic the Friendship Medal, China’s highest honour for foreign nationals.
He praised his consistent support for China’s core interests.
Xi said the award reflected both recognition of Vucic’s contribution to bilateral ties and the aspirations of both peoples for a shared future.
Vucic described the award as “one of the most important moments” of his life, saying it symbolised not only personal recognition but also respect for Serbia’s sovereignty and development path.
“Serbia will never forget China’s support and assistance,” Vucic said, adding that he would continue working to strengthen Serbia-China relations.
The two leaders also pledged to expand cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, particularly in transport, energy, artificial intelligence, digital economy, green energy and advanced manufacturing.
Xi called for stronger people-to-people exchanges through visa-free travel arrangements, direct flights and expanded cooperation in education, culture, sports and tourism.
Vucic praised Chinese companies for contributing to Serbia’s development and said Serbia was ready to deepen cooperation with China on major projects and multilateral initiatives.
“In today’s world, China plays a unique role as a leading engine of global economic growth and a promoter of multilateralism,” said Gordana Mišev of Serbia’s Institute of International Politics and Economics.
Following the talks, both sides witnessed the signing of more than 20 cooperation agreements covering politics, trade, science, education, legal affairs and culture, and issued joint statements on advancing bilateral cooperation and global initiatives.
Xinhua
