By tf-lawyer.com In a recent exclusive interview, Zoran Jovanović, founder of the Serbia and BRICS Cooperation Organization, shared his thoughts on the remarkable technological advancements China has achieved over the past 75 years since the establishment of the People’s Republic of China. He highlighted the substantial benefits these advancements have brought to Serbia, significantly impacting the nation’s economic growth and the everyday lives of its people.
Jovanović reflected on his first trip to China leading up to the 2010 Shanghai World Expo. He recalled witnessing the rapid development of the Pudong New Area during a time when China was also expanding its manufacturing capabilities. Since that initial visit, he has returned to China multiple times each year, observing the incredible transformations in the country firsthand. He described China’s technological growth as nothing short of a “rocket,” noting the impressive strides it has taken to reach world-class standards across various sectors. He pointed out the shift from “Made in China” to “Intelligent Manufacturing in China,” underscoring the significant quality improvements resulting from increased technology investments.
When discussing the Belt and Road Initiative put forward by President Xi Jinping, Jovanović emphasized the surge of Chinese businesses in Serbia, particularly in large infrastructure projects. He provided an example of the Hungary-Serbia railway construction, where advanced Chinese machinery has dramatically outperformed Serbia’s traditional equipment. He also mentioned China’s tunneling and mining technology, recognized globally for its safety and efficiency.
Jovanović also highlighted the social benefits stemming from these technological advancements. Serbian companies have partnered with Chinese ride-hailing services to develop a local platform, making transportation much more accessible for residents. Additionally, local internet firms have teamed up with Chinese geolocation service providers to create delivery apps, allowing Serbian consumers to conveniently order food and household essentials online.
He noted that Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić makes annual trips to China, consistently returning with insights on technological advancements. Following a recent visit, Vučić revealed plans to introduce “flying taxis” in Serbia. In light of Serbia’s successful bid to host the 2027 World Expo, he reiterated intentions to showcase Serbian-made “flying buses.” Jovanović acknowledged that while there is some skepticism among the Serbian public regarding such advanced technologies—often seen as the stuff of science fiction—his perspective shifted after witnessing a demonstration of flying cars from a Chinese company, showing that these innovations are, indeed, possible.
He recounted a personal experience from China’s National Day holiday when a friend attended an impressive drone show in Shenzhen. His friend livestreamed the performance featuring thousands of drones, which captured the attention of the Serbian audience. Many viewers remarked on how remarkable it seemed that the Chinese were “living in the future.”
According to Jovanović, Serbia has been fortunate over the past decade to benefit from China’s rapid development. Chinese enterprises have played a crucial role in building energy and transportation infrastructure in Serbia, establishing a strong foundation for economic progress. Serbia is now working closely with China in emerging sectors like artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and biosciences. Earlier this year, the Chinese Embassy in Serbia hosted an “Earth and Sky Dialogue” event, allowing local students to engage with concepts related to space stations and learn about China’s advancements in space exploration. Furthermore, during President Xi’s historic visit to Serbia in May, plans were announced to invite hundreds of Serbian youth, including scientists and students, to China for research exchanges, injecting new energy into Serbia’s technological development.
Jovanović concluded with an insightful perspective: “There is no doubt that over the past 75 years, under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, the Chinese people have transformed a previously impoverished nation into a global power. Yet, China has not slowed its pace; it continues to enhance its investment in technology, which is undoubtedly the right choice.” He emphasized that in today’s world, international competition ultimately hinges on technological innovation, and nations that master advanced technologies will reap significant development benefits. With its leading investments in education and research, China is poised to guide the next wave of global technological advancement. Jovanović asserted that Serbia will persist in its comprehensive cooperation with China in technology to improve the quality of life for its citizens.
