Putin hails Serbian leader's presidential win

Aleksandar Vucic had been backed by Russian leader in run up to Sunday's Serbian election

By Diyar Guldogan

ANKARA (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday congratulated Serbian leader Aleksandar Vucic on his presidential election win over the weekend.

“This convincing victory in the election reflects broad support for your efforts to resolve Serbia’s current economic and social issues and to pursue a constructive and balanced foreign policy course,” Putin said in his message.

Putin said Vucic was known in Russia as a principled supporter of "stronger, friendly" relations between Moscow and Belgrade.

Vucic avoided a run-off by winning 55 percent of the vote on Sunday, according to the Ipsos polling group -- the first presidential candidate in 25 years to do so.

The 47-year-old will assume the largely ceremonial role at the end of May, but is expected to retain control of his ruling Progressive Party.

Vucic was endorsed by Putin before the first round of voting during a visit to Moscow on March 27.

Kaynak: