Vucic: China’s firm and unequivocal support for Serbia’s territorial integrity

President of Serbia Aleksandar Vucic stated today in Beijing, following meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Li Qiang, that China’s support for Serbia’s territorial integrity is firm, clear, and unwavering.

“We discussed Kosovo and Metohija. China firmly supports the preservation of Serbia’s territorial integrity and Kosovo and Metohija as part of Serbia. China’s support is firm, clear, unequivocal, and unwavering, just as our support for China’s territorial integrity and the One China principle is unwavering. There is strong mutual support on all issues in accordance with the norms of international public law and the UN Charter,” Vucic stated.

He pointed out that what was agreed with the Chinese side is important for Serbia because, once agreements are reached, “they fulfill them.”

Vucic said he had no doubt that Serbia would face criticism regarding the country’s international position because of his visit to Beijing and the agreements reached with China.

“Many will criticize us, which is why regional media avoid the topic, because it demonstrates Serbia’s strength. I expect to be criticized soon as well because I am going to Tivat. But I am accustomed to such things, because some people fail to understand that no matter how much pressure you exert, I always weigh matters on two scales — and Serbia’s interests will always be more important than the pressure aimed at breaking me,” Vucic said.

He recalled that French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and recently U.S. President Donald Trump had also visited China, although, as he remarked, “apparently they have the right to do so.”

“They all have that right, while I apparently do not. Who am I — the president of a country of seven million people? And I understand that attitude, and I have no issue with it,” Vucic said.

He stressed that he is convinced Serbia has wide-open doors for the successful continuation of cooperation with China.

“I am proud of Serbia, and personally very pleased with the results of the meetings with Xi Jinping, both in the broader and narrower formats. I believe the doors are wide open for a successful continuation of cooperation. We came here to do something in the interests of the citizens of Serbia. I am convinced that we have created many opportunities for the country,” Vucic told reporters.

He added that partnership with China has brought Serbia “extraordinary benefits.”

Vucic emphasized that China is a factor of stability in the world, a country that “does not wage wars out of whim,” and one that is progressing at the fastest pace.

“This is a country that has not recognized the independence of the so-called Kosovo, that supported us in the United Nations when Serbia’s interests needed to be defended, including with regard to accusations that the Serbian people committed genocide,” Vucic stated.

He conveyed that discussions with Chinese officials also included the possibility of one of the Chinese companies investing in southern Serbia, as well as topics related to artificial intelligence and strengthening the country’s defense capacities.

According to Vucic, more frequent consultations on foreign policy matters were also agreed upon.
In that context, he noted that the Chinese President possesses more information and insight, given the recent visits to Beijing by the President of the United States, followed by Russian officials, as well as the Prime Minister of Pakistan, who serves as a mediator between the United States and Iran.

“These are important insights for greater predictability in the future,” Vucic added.

Asked about the new strategy of the United States Department of State for the Western Balkans, which, among other things, states that the “malign influence of Russia and China” should be eliminated, Vucic said that Serbia respects the United States and the work of the State Department, but would not abandon its own positions.

“We respect what the State Department is doing and we have taken note of it. We will work and cooperate with the Americans; they are a great power. But we will not renounce our own position, at least not as easily as some imagine. Otherwise, what is the purpose of having a state?” President Vucic said.

Regarding the situation in Iran, amid predictions of a broader new conflict, Vucic expressed the opinion that the U.S. President has not yet made a final decision.

“I am pleased that oil prices on global markets are somewhat lower today because of his statement that an agreement may be close. If you ask me — and President Xi did not say this, it is merely my own conclusion — I am not entirely certain that developments will move in a positive direction,” Vucic stated.

He added that even if an agreement is reached regarding control of the Strait of Hormuz, another issue remains — uranium.

“That is not easy. Someone will have to admit defeat, and I am not certain that anyone is prepared to do so. I am not sure, although I would very much like matters to move in a positive direction on that issue,” Vucic added.

During the official visit to China, President Xi today presented President Vucic with the Friendship Medal of China, the highest distinction awarded to foreign statesmen.

Earlier today, Vucic also held talks with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang and with Wang Huning.