In a significant move to bolster international cooperation, Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Belgrade on Tuesday as part of his European tour. Greeting him at the airport, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic emphasized the enduring friendship between the two nations.
During his written speech, Xi highlighted the impressive progress since the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership in 2016. \"Since the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership in 2016, the bilateral relationship has realized leapfrog development, and achieved historic results,\" he stated. He praised the \"rock-solid political mutual trust\" and the successful Belt and Road initiatives that have strengthened economic ties.
Xi also underscored the advancements in people-to-people exchanges, noting the comprehensive mutual visa exemption, the introduction of direct flights, and the signing of a free-trade agreement. \"Our ironclad friendship has taken deeper roots in the heart of the two peoples,\" he remarked, emphasizing that the cooperation is built on equality and mutual benefit.
Looking ahead, Xi expressed his commitment to enhancing China-Serbia relations with greater momentum, expanded scope, and improved quality. \"China will work with Serbia to jointly stay committed to the original aspiration and forge ahead together to open up a new vista in China-Serbia cooperation with stronger momentum, greater scope and higher quality,\" he affirmed.
He concluded by expressing confidence that his visit would pave the way for deeper dialogue and a new chapter in bilateral relations. \"I am confident that this visit will be a fruitful one and will open up a new chapter in China-Serbia relations,\" Xi stated.
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Xi hopes cooperation with Serbia can develop with 'stronger momentum'
cgtn.com
