China and Serbia have taken a significant step forward in their bilateral relations by agreeing to build a comprehensive strategic partnership aimed at a shared future in the new era. This historic move marks Serbia as the first European country to reach such a consensus with China.
In a joint statement signed on Wednesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić outlined six key measures to support this initiative. Among the highlights, the free trade agreement between the two nations is set to take effect on July 1, fostering greater economic collaboration.
China has pledged its support for Serbia's hosting of Expo 2027 and announced that a Chinese delegation will participate in the grand event. Additionally, Chinese enterprises are encouraged to engage in constructing relevant projects, further solidifying economic ties.
Enhancing agricultural trade, China expressed its readiness to import more quality and distinctive agricultural products from Serbia. In the realm of education and scientific collaboration, the Chinese side will facilitate exchange programs for 50 young Serbian scientists over the next three years and invite 300 Serbian youths to study in China during the same period.
Travel connectivity is also set to improve, with plans to increase direct flights between Belgrade and Shanghai. Furthermore, both sides are encouraged to launch direct flights between Belgrade and Guangzhou, boosting tourism and business travel.
These initiatives aim to deepen and elevate the China-Serbia comprehensive strategic partnership, building on Serbia's status as China's comprehensive strategic partner in Central and Eastern Europe since eight years ago.
Reference(s):
China, Serbia agree to build community with a shared future in new era
cgtn.com
