Chinese Premier Li Qiang has called for increased cooperation and partnership between China and the European Union (EU), emphasizing that collaboration should remain the cornerstone of their relationship. Speaking at the 25th China-EU Summit in Beijing on Thursday, Premier Li addressed EU leaders, including President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.
“No matter how the international landscape evolves, cooperation should be the keynote and partnership the correct definition of China-EU relations,” Li said during the summit held at the Great Hall of the People.
Highlighting the achievements of the past five decades since the establishment of diplomatic ties, Li noted that China-EU relations have developed steadily, bringing tangible benefits to people on both sides. He stressed that mutual respect, understanding, and openness have historically led to smooth cooperation that benefits both China and the EU.
“China and the EU have extensive common interests and no fundamental conflict,” Li stated. He underscored the importance of collaboration in the current global context, saying, “In this changing and turbulent international situation, it is all the more important for China and the EU, the world’s two major forces and two major markets, to engage in close cooperation.”
Li expressed confidence that by upholding free trade and practicing multilateralism, China and the EU could maintain dynamic international economic and trade relations and contribute to a multipolar world. “China will continue to work with the EU to achieve greater progress in this relationship and bring more benefits to the people of China, the EU, and beyond,” he affirmed.
