Beijing, October 25 — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with diplomatic envoys from the European Union (EU) and its member states on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of strengthening China-EU relations.
As this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the EU, Wang Yi highlighted the opportunity to elevate the China-EU Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to new heights. He called for both sides to enhance mutual trust, handle differences properly, and pool their strengths.
Wang Yi presented a three-point proposal for the future development of China-EU relations:
1. Upholding Mutual Respect
Wang Yi stressed the importance of respecting each other’s core interests and major concerns. He reiterated that achieving complete national reunification is a long-cherished aspiration and historic mission of the Chinese nation. He expressed hope that the EU will continue to adhere firmly to the one-China principle and oppose any form of separatist activities for “Taiwan independence”.
2. Strengthening Partnership
Emphasizing that China and the EU are partners, not rivals or enemies, Wang Yi noted that there are no territorial disputes or fundamental clashes of interests between them. He urged both sides to make cooperation the prevailing trend in China-EU relations.
3. Adhering to Multilateralism
Wang Yi affirmed China’s commitment to the international system centered on the United Nations, international law, and the basic norms of international relations. He emphasized that China consistently supports peace talks and rejects the use of force. He also highlighted initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping, including the Belt and Road Initiative and the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity, as contributions to global wisdom and solutions.
“China and the EU should follow the trend of the times, enhance understanding, build trust, achieve mutual success, and light up the world,” Wang Yi said.
The head of the EU delegation to China and diplomatic envoys from EU member states expressed that China has always been an important partner for the EU. They conveyed the EU’s willingness to work hand-in-hand with China for a constructive and stable relationship, jointly address global challenges, uphold multilateralism, and promote world peace and security.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
