EXPLORING NEW FRONTIERS

During Xi's Monday talks with Vucic, he said against the backdrop of a new scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, the two sides should expand cooperation in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, the digital economy, green energy and advanced manufacturing to foster new growth drivers.

Following the talks, the two heads of state jointly witnessed the signing of over 20 cooperation documents in areas including politics, economy and trade, science and technology, education, legal affairs and culture.

According to a joint statement released on Monday, the two sides will work to align China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) and the Serbia 2030 development strategy. Building on the existing successful cooperation, they will actively explore new areas of future growth and jointly pursue their respective national development goals.

During his visit in Beijing, Vucic also toured the factory of Xiaomi, a Chinese electronics maker.

"It's really great," said the Serbian president after trying out a Xiaomi electric vehicle.

Concrete cooperation projects in various emerging fields are already underway, including the establishment of a robot factory in Sabac, west of Belgrade. The factory is expected to create hundreds of jobs, and a wind power project in the northern city of Pancevo, which will help optimize Serbia's energy mix.

Former Yugoslav foreign minister Zivadin Jovanovic said the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Serbia is aimed at improving the quality of life for their peoples.

The Chinese investment has helped drive strong economic growth while providing an alternative to the political and financial conditions often attached by Western institutions, he added.