China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for enhanced ties between China and Austria, expressing hope that the new Austrian government will continue its friendly policy toward China. In a phone conversation on Tuesday with Austria’s Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger, Wang emphasized the importance of bilateral relations in addressing global challenges.
Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted the significant changes occurring in the international landscape. He urged both nations to promote cooperation to contribute to international peace and development.
Meinl-Reisinger echoed Wang’s sentiments, stating that Austria values its strong relationship with China and looks forward to deepening cooperation both bilaterally and within multilateral frameworks. She affirmed that the new Austrian government adheres to the one-China policy and will maintain consistency in its approach to China.
During the call, Wang Yi criticized recent U.S. tariff policies, stating that the “reckless imposition of tariffs on various countries” disrupts international trade and the global economic order. He described such actions as unilateralism and protectionism.
“China will continue to firmly uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core,” Wang said. He emphasized China’s commitment to high-level opening up and sharing development opportunities with the world.
Wang also called on China and the European Union to take on international responsibilities by jointly defending the multilateral trading system and working together to build an open world economy. Meinl-Reisinger responded by expressing the EU’s desire to enhance economic and trade cooperation with China, maintain stable and constructive relations, and address global challenges collaboratively.
“The EU will stand united in safeguarding its interests and the multilateral trading system,” she added.
