Chinese Premier Li Qiang has urged China and the European Union to expand their trade and investment connections to enhance economic resilience and vitality. Speaking at the China-EU Business Leaders Symposium in Beijing, Li emphasized the importance of collaboration in navigating global uncertainties.
“Cooperation is the only correct choice for China and the EU,” Li told the gathering of around 60 business leaders, which was also attended by Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
Li highlighted the strong momentum of China-EU trade relations over the past five decades since establishing diplomatic ties. He noted that in the face of rising protectionism and unilateralism, closer economic and trade cooperation between China and the EU can play pivotal roles in promoting globalization and stabilizing international industrial and supply chains.
The Chinese premier proposed focusing on areas such as trade in services, technological innovation, the green economy, and third-party cooperation. He encouraged businesses from both sides to maintain an open attitude and deepen cooperation in industrial investment, market expansion, and joint research and development.
“We welcome more European businesses to invest and pursue long-term operations in China,” Li said, adding that China will continue expanding its high-level opening-up, shorten the negative list for foreign investment, strengthen intellectual property protection, and safeguard fair competition. He also called on the EU to provide a fair, equitable, and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese enterprises investing in Europe.
President von der Leyen acknowledged China’s significant role in innovation and industry. “China is not only an industrial powerhouse but also a top performer in innovation,” she said.
She expressed the EU’s readiness to deepen its long-term, stable, and mutually beneficial partnership with China, using the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations as an opportunity. Von der Leyen noted that the EU would enhance cooperation with China in fields such as trade and investment, work together to promote industrial and supply chain stability, manage differences properly, and foster a favorable environment for cooperation and business.
“The EU has no intention to decouple from China and welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest in Europe,” she added.
