Li meets with foreign leaders attending CIIE

Premier Li Qiang engaged in a series of high-level discussions with foreign leaders on Tuesday, as they gathered in Shanghai for the eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE), set to commence on Wednesday. The meetings underscored China’s commitment to fostering closer international relations and mutual understanding. During his talks with Serbian Prime Minister Djuro Macut, Premier Li emphasized the importance of mutual respect and trust, particularly in supporting each other’s core interests. He highlighted key collaborative projects, such as the Hungary-Serbia railway, and called for enhanced economic, trade, and cultural cooperation to benefit both nations. Li also stressed the need for strengthened multilateral coordination to improve global governance. Macut expressed optimism about the opportunities presented by China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) and reiterated Serbia’s eagerness to deepen cooperation with China. In his meeting with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Premier Li reflected on the 33-year diplomatic relationship between China and Georgia, marked by mutual respect and support. He advocated for strategic communication and enhanced cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, aiming to benefit both peoples. Kobakhidze reaffirmed Georgia’s adherence to the one-China principle and expressed readiness to expand collaboration in various fields. The discussions concluded with the signing of multiple bilateral cooperation documents. Premier Li also met with Abbas Tajudeen, Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, to discuss aligning development strategies and advancing modernization through high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. Tajudeen reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to the one-China principle and expressed a desire to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.