The President of the People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping, has sent the first official birthday greeting to Aleksandar Vučić, President of the Serbia, emphasizing the close partnership and growing strategic cooperation between the two countries.
According to a statement from Vučić’s office, Xi praised Serbia’s leadership under Vučić, noting that the country adheres to independence and autonomy, firmly defends state sovereignty and national dignity, and maintains economic development and social stability.
In his message, Xi described Vučić as “a reliable friend of the Chinese people” who consistently supports China’s vital interests and understands its key concerns. He also highlighted the progress made in bilateral relations, stating that under their joint guidance, the building of a China–Serbia community with a shared future in the new era has achieved positive results, while the “steel friendship” between the two nations has become even more deeply rooted among their peoples.
Xi further stressed that he attaches great importance to the development of China–Serbia relations and expressed readiness to continue strengthening strategic coordination and expanding practical cooperation in the future.
Full Message Sent by President Xi Jinping
“Esteemed President,
Allow me to extend my sincere congratulations and best wishes on the occasion of your birthday.
I highly appreciate that, under your leadership, Serbia adheres to independence and autonomy, firmly defends state sovereignty and national dignity, and strongly safeguards economic development and social stability.
Last year we met twice, exchanged views on China–Serbia relations and issues of mutual interest, and reached broad consensus. You are a reliable friend of the Chinese people, who consistently and firmly supports China’s vital interests and understands the main concerns of the Chinese side. Under our joint guidance, the building of a China–Serbia community with a shared future in the new era has achieved positive progress, and the steel friendship between our two countries has become more deeply rooted in the hearts of our peoples.
I attach great importance to the development of China–Serbia relations and am ready to work together with you to continue strengthening strategic guidance and continuously explore the potential for practical cooperation, so that we can contribute even more to the well-being of the peoples of our two countries.
I look forward to meeting you again. I wish you good health and all the best.”**
Serbia–China Relations: A Growing Strategic Partnership
Relations between Serbia and China have significantly strengthened in recent years, particularly in infrastructure, investment, technology, and political cooperation. The two countries have developed what officials often describe as a “steel friendship,” marked by:
- Major Chinese investments in Serbian infrastructure and industry, including highways, railways, and energy projects.
- Cooperation within the Belt and Road Initiative, positioning Serbia as an important partner for China in Southeast Europe.
- Strategic political support, with Beijing backing Serbia on key international issues, while Belgrade maintains strong diplomatic ties with China.
- Growing trade and economic collaboration, alongside expanding technological and security cooperation.
The birthday message from Xi Jinping is widely seen as another sign of the close diplomatic relationship and strategic alignment between Beijing and Belgrade.
