german.china.org.cn
Serbia Opens Final Section of China-Built E-763 Highway
On July 5th, 2025, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic opened the final 19.56km section of the E-763 highway built by China, completing the 30.9km Preljina–Pozega stretch costing over $520 million, improving connectivity between central and western Serbia, and strengthening ties with Montenegro and Italy.
- What is the significance of the newly opened E-763 highway section in Serbia, and what immediate impacts will it have?
- On July 5th, 2025, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic inaugurated the final 19.56km section of the E-763 "Milos Veliki" highway, completing the 30.9km Preljina–Pozega stretch. This section, built by China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), includes Serbia's two longest road tunnels and significantly improves connectivity within the country.
- What are the long-term implications of this project for Serbia's infrastructure development and its relationship with China?
- The E-763 highway's completion strengthens regional connectivity between Romania, Serbia, Montenegro, and Italy. Future expansion plans, including two new branches from Pozega, suggest continued investment in Serbian infrastructure and further integration into European transportation networks. The project underscores the growing Sino-Serbian economic partnership in infrastructure development.
- How does the completion of this highway section contribute to broader regional connectivity and economic development in Serbia?
- The completed highway section, part of a larger project costing over \$520 million, connects central and western Serbia, enhancing transport links to Montenegro and the Adriatic coast. This infrastructure development reflects Serbia's aim to modernize its transportation network, boosting economic growth and improving quality of life.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative heavily emphasizes the positive contributions of both President Vučić and the Chinese government. The headline (if one existed) likely would highlight the opening and the positive economic impact. The article uses strong, positive language throughout, framing the highway as a symbol of Serbian progress and Chinese-Serbian friendship. This framing may overshadow any potential negative aspects of the project.
Language Bias
The language used is overwhelmingly positive and celebratory. Words like "strong," "modern," "safe," "high-quality," and "iron friendship" are used to describe Serbia and the relationship with China. These terms are not inherently biased but contribute to an overall positive and potentially unbalanced portrayal. More neutral alternatives might be "developed," "efficient," "reliable," and "strong relations.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the positive aspects of the highway's completion, potentially omitting challenges or negative impacts during construction, such as environmental concerns or displacement of local populations. There is no mention of the cost to Serbian taxpayers, only the total investment. The potential for corruption in awarding the contract to a Chinese firm is also unaddressed.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a starkly positive view of the highway's impact, framing it solely as beneficial for economic development and improved infrastructure. It doesn't acknowledge potential drawbacks or alternative perspectives on the project's overall value or impact.
Sustainable Development Goals
The opening of the E-763 highway section reflects progress towards sustainable infrastructure development. Improved connectivity boosts economic growth, facilitates trade, and enhances regional integration, aligning with SDG 9 targets. The project involved significant engineering challenges overcome through innovation in tunnel and bridge construction.