Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has expressed strong support for China’s sovereignty over Taiwan during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two leaders met in Belgrade, where China has made significant investments in the Balkan region, particularly in mining and industry. A free trade agreement was signed between Beijing and Belgrade last year.
During Xi’s visit to Belgrade, Vucic welcomed him and his wife with red carpets and a salute ceremony, emphasizing the friendship between Serbia and China. Vucic reiterated Serbia’s firm stance on supporting China’s territorial integrity, including its claims to Taiwan. This declaration resonated well with Xi, who appreciated the explicit statement from a European leader.
The two presidents signed a declaration to strengthen diplomatic relations and discussed various trade agreements, including the purchase of Chinese trains, opening new airlines, and increasing imports of Serbian products. Xi’s visit to Belgrade coincided with the 25th anniversary of the 1999 US bombing of the Chinese embassy in the city, highlighting the historical ties between China and Serbia.
The visit underscores the close relationship between China and Serbia, with both countries supporting each other’s interests on various issues, including Taiwan and Kosovo. The citizens of Belgrade welcomed Xi’s visit, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong ties with one of the most powerful countries in the world. The visit also signals Serbia’s alignment with China at a time when global geopolitics are shifting.
China has made significant investments in Serbia and other Balkan countries due to their strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The region is rich in natural resources such as coal, oil, gas, copper ore, iron ore