European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday, with both leaders expressing a strong commitment to deepen cooperation between China and the European Union (EU) and to jointly address global challenges.
Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, as well as the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations.
“As the international landscape becomes more complex and challenging, it’s imperative for China and the EU, as major forces and civilizations, to strengthen communication, build mutual trust, and contribute to global stability,” Wang said.
He emphasized the significance of the upcoming China-EU leaders’ meeting, calling it a pivotal event at a crucial time. “China looks forward to working with the EU to reflect on the valuable experiences of the past 50 years and to chart a course for cooperation over the next 50 years,” Wang added.
Wang reiterated China’s support for European integration and urged both sides to uphold multilateralism and free trade. He called for joint efforts in safeguarding international rules and order, promoting peaceful resolutions to international disputes, and collaborating on global challenges like climate change.
“China remains committed to high-quality development and high-level opening-up,” Wang stated. “We are ready to work with the EU to deepen economic and trade cooperation, expand mutual openness, and properly handle differences through consultation to achieve mutual benefit and win-win results.”
Ursula von der Leyen expressed similar sentiments, noting that the upcoming EU-China leaders’ meeting is the best opportunity to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
“The EU is committed to developing stable and constructive relations with China,” von der Leyen said. She emphasized the importance of mutually beneficial economic and trade cooperation and expressed her anticipation for in-depth discussions with Chinese leaders on shared concerns.
“By deepening cooperation and jointly tackling global challenges such as climate change, we can send a strong and positive signal to the world,” she added.
Von der Leyen also reaffirmed that the EU will continue to adhere to the one-China policy.
