Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic at the Kremlin on Friday, where they underscored close energy cooperation and shared wartime legacy.

According to Anadolu Agency, Putin reiterated that Russia remains the key guarantor of Serbia's energy security and noted that the Russian energy company, Gazprom, continues to deliver natural gas to Serbia without interruption, even exceeding agreed volumes at Belgrade's request.

The Russian president also called for efforts to revitalize bilateral trade, saying the decline in economic cooperation should be addressed immediately. He urged the appointment of a Serbian co-chair to an intergovernmental commission to help steer future steps.

Putin acknowledged the challenges faced by Vucic in making the visit, highlighting Serbia's 'sovereign and independent course' and expressing appreciation for Vucic's commitment to the meeting despite logistical difficulties.

Vucic emphasized the strategic importance of Russian gas for Serbia's energy needs, calling the supply deal crucial and beneficial. He expressed gratitude for the favorable terms, and thanked Putin for consistently supporting Serbia's territorial integrity, expressing hope for a future visit by the Russian leader to Belgrade.

Vucic arrived in Moscow on Wednesday to attend the WWII commemoration and lauded the wartime alliance between the Soviet Union and Yugoslavia.