China, Serbia to Bolster Cooperation in Transport, Energy

During President Xi Jinping's state visit to Serbia, China and Serbia agreed to elevate their bilateral relations. This agreement was formalized through a joint declaration signed by Xi and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, which includes advancing cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative specifically in transportation and energy infrastructure. Additionally, the agreement aims to expand collaboration in trade, science and technology, and innovation [para. 1][para. 2].

Serbia has been a significant partner in the Belt and Road Initiative and this visit marks a deepening of ties since establishing a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2016. The concept of building a "community with a shared future," which is central to Xi Jinping's diplomatic philosophy, underscores this partnership. It envisions creating an inclusive global community characterized by peace, security, and shared prosperity [para. 2][para. 3][para. 4].

The economic relationship between China and Serbia has been strengthening over the years. In October 2023, they signed the China-Serbia Free Trade Agreement which will be effective from July 1st. Under this agreement, China will increase imports of Serbian agricultural products. Moreover, Xi extended an invitation to 300 young Serbians to participate in study programs and scientific research exchanges in China over the next three years [para. 4][para. 5].

The political support between the two nations is also robust. During their meeting, Vučić expressed firm support for China regarding Taiwan, while China reciprocated by supporting Serbia on issues related to Kosovo's sovereignty and territorial integrity [para. 6]. This mutual support is pivotal as Serbia is an EU candidate yet continues to align closely with Beijing’s geopolitical stances.

Trade between China and Serbia reached $3.55 billion in 2022, marking a 10.1% increase from the previous year. The relationship has historical roots that were further solidified after NATO bombed the Chinese embassy in Belgrade in 1999. Since then, Vučić has actively engaged with China, including attending the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation held in October 2023 [para. 7][para. 8].

Xi’s trip to Serbia is part of a broader six-day European tour that included visits to France and Hungary. This tour highlights China's ongoing efforts to strengthen its diplomatic ties with various countries across continents including Cuba, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Thailand as well as regional initiatives with Africa, Latin America, and ASEAN nations [para. 9][para. 10].

Overall, this state visit reinforces both economic ties through agreements like the free trade deal and political alignment on key international issues between China and Serbia.