Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, called for greater and longer-term development of China-Serbia relations, during a meeting with Tamara Djukanovic, the wife of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing on Monday.

Peng asked Djukanovic to convey President Xi's greetings and best wishes to the Serbian president.

The Chinese first lady hailed the deep friendship between China and Serbia, noting the warm reception she received from the Serbian government and its people when she accompanied Xi on a state visit in 2016.

She encouraged the two countries to strengthen people-to-people exchanges and boost understanding with each other.

Peng appreciated Djukanovic's efforts in helping disadvantaged groups and safeguarding children's rights and interests.

China attaches great importance to issues related to women and children, Peng said.

Peng is also a UNESCO Special Envoy for the Promotion of Girls' and Women's Education. Peng said she is willing to share China's experience with Serbia to promote the development of international children and women's education.

Djukanovic said the Serbian people are grateful to China for its invaluable support and help, and cherish the friendship between the two countries.

Serbia is firmly committed to developing relations with China and is willing to be China's sincere friend and partner, Djukanovic stressed.