Xi calls for deepening China-Serbia cooperation amid global turbulence

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for deepening cooperation between China and Serbia amid growing international turbulence, during his talks with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Beijing on Monday. At the invitation of Xi, Vucic is on a state visit to China from May 24 to 28.

"It's a great pleasure to meet you, Mr. President Vucic, again in Beijing. Both the Chinese and Serbian peoples have experienced sufferings and made achievements, and possess tenacious and indomitable spirit. We both firmly pursue independence and autonomy, safeguard national dignity, and have a profound understanding of adhering to peaceful development and upholding fairness and justice. The more turbulent and volatile the world is, the more China and Serbia should enhance exchanges, consolidate mutual trust, deepen cooperation and support each other, joining hands to forge a bright path of shared destiny and common prosperity," said Xi.

Vucic expressed gratitude to Xi for China's support for Serbia, while wishing the ironclad friendship between the two countries will last forever.

"Your Excellency President Xi Jinping and my dear friend, it's a great honor for me to come to Beijing on behalf of the Serbian people. Thank you! Since the two countries established comprehensive strategic partnership 10 years ago, we have made remarkable achievements. I appreciate China very much for its support for Serbia's development. For us, we will be eternally grateful for China's help. Long live the ironclad friendship between Serbia and the People's Republic of China!" said Vucic.

The Navy of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) said on Monday that 32 vessels including oil tankers, container ships and other merchant ships passed through the Strait of Hormuz within the past 24 hours with permission from the IRGC.

According to Monday's media reports from the Qatar side, an Iranian official stated that the Strait of Hormuz will be opened in phases.

Iran tightened its grip on the Strait beginning February 28, when it barred safe passage of vessels belonging to or affiliated with Israel and the United States following their joint strikes on Iranian territory.

The United States has also imposed a naval blockade on the strait, preventing ships traveling to and from Iranian ports transiting the waterway.