Vucic thanks China for supporting Serbia's territorial integrity

BELGRADE - Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Wednesday received Qian Hongshan, vice minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, to discuss numerous aspects of the Sino-Serbian strategic partnership and again expressed gratitude to China, its president and the Communist Party of China for supporting Serbia's territorial integrity and independence.

Vucic especially noted that Serbia supported the One China policy in all international forums in a firm and consistent manner, the presidential press office said in a statement.

Vucic said Belgrade-Beijing relations were embarking on a new phase of development, in particular through plans for multi-faceted economic cooperation, advancement of trade and an inflow of fresh Chinese investments.

He expressed Serbia's support to the Initiative for Global Development as a format advocating the creation of a favourable environment aiming to accelerate global development while encouraging an equal and balanced development partnership.

Vucic noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping's initiatives carried special weight, being oriented towards the general well-being of humanity and focused on connectivity and cooperation, irrespective of the size and real strength of states in the international arena.

Extending his congratulations on the results of the 20th Congress of the Communist Party of China and on Xi's re-election as party leader,

Vucic said he hoped Xi would visit Serbia again soon and noted that the visit would not only be a special honour, but an opportunity for Serbia to welcome the president of China in a cordial manner and thank him for his personal engagement in building a steely friendship between the two countries.

Qian said the good relationship between the two presidents and their numerous meetings represented a strong driving force for further development of Serbia-China cooperation, and added that his country was ready to further strengthen its comprehensive strategic partnership with Serbia.

The meeting was also attended by Chinese Ambassador to Belgrade Chen Bo.