China's Xi congratulates Vucic on Serbian Statehood Day

BELGRADE - Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Wednesday received a congratulatory message from Chinese President Xi Jinping on occasion of February 15, Serbia's Statehood Day.

"Under your leadership, economic development and society-building in Serbia are seeing exceptional results, while the citizens' living standard is constantly improving. Serbia advocates independence and its international position and influence are steadily advancing. As a good friend of Serbia, China is glad to see such success," Xi wrote in the message.

He noted that under his and Vucic's joint leadership, Sino-Serbian relations had seen a step forward in recent years, the press office of the president of Serbia said in a statement.

"Our countries maintain firm mutual political trust and support each other on vital interests, and the depth and width of practical cooperation are increasing continuously, making a positive contribution to development of both sides, to the good quality of joint construction of Belt and Road and to building a community with a common future for humanity," Xi noted.

He added that he attached great importance to development of Sino-Serbian relations.

"I stand ready to invest joint efforts with you to intensify the exchanges between our countries at all levels, deepen comprehensive cooperation and take the comprehensive Sino-Serbian strategic partnership to an even higher level. I wish prosperity to your country and happiness and well-being to your people," he wrote.