Putin says Russia-Serbia strategic partnership yielding mutual benefits

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin met on Tuesday his Serbian counterpart Aleksandar Vucic and said strategic partnership between the two countries is beneficial to both sides, yielding positive results.

"The strategic partnership we share brings tangible benefits not only to Russia but also to Serbia," Putin said at the meeting in Beijing.

However, the Russian president regretted that there was a certain decline in trade between the two countries last year.

"This year, however, we see a positive dynamic emerging, and our task now is to consolidate it," he said.

Putin highlighted that ministries of both countries collaborate intensively and productively on a regular basis.

"As far as I know, another session of the Committee on Trade and Economic Relations is scheduled for Belgrade later this year. Naturally, we are ready and interested in continuing joint work in these directions," he said.

Vucic said maintaining relations with Russia at a high level in all fields is "crucial" for Serbia, urging not only to maintain but also to reinforce and expand collaboration.

"Energy sector, including gas supply to our country, is vital for us. Thanks to the construction of the oil pipeline leading to Hungary, we will advance in energy development," he said.

Vucic also welcomed Russian companies willing to participate in infrastructure projects in Serbia.

"I wish to inform you once again that Serbia, respected Mr. president, has found itself in a difficult position and under great pressure ever since the start of the Ukrainian crisis. However, despite everything, we managed to uphold our principled stance and defend Serbia's independence," he said.

Vucic emphasized that Serbia remains the sole European country that did not impose any sanctions against Russia and continues maintaining military neutrality.