Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated China’s unwavering support for European integration and the European Union’s (EU) pursuit of strategic autonomy during a phone conversation with European Council President António Costa on Tuesday.
President Xi emphasized that China views Europe as a significant pole in a multipolar world and values the longstanding partnership between China and the EU.
“The history of China-EU relations demonstrates that as long as both sides uphold mutual respect, treat each other as equals, and engage in candid dialogue, they can advance cooperation and make significant achievements,” Xi said.
Highlighting China’s commitment to high-quality development and high-level opening up, Xi noted that these efforts would bring new opportunities for China-EU cooperation.
“This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the EU,” Xi stated, advocating for deeper cultural and people-to-people exchanges to strengthen the bilateral relationship.
European Council President Costa expressed the EU’s willingness to collaborate with China to address economic and trade differences through dialogue and consultation.
“The EU is ready to work with China to celebrate the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic ties, strengthen dialogue and cooperation, deepen strategic mutual trust, and pave the way for a better future for China-EU relations,” Costa said.
Both leaders underscored the absence of fundamental conflicts or geopolitical clashes between China and the EU, highlighting the potential for both sides to contribute to each other’s success.
The conversation between Xi and Costa reflects a mutual commitment to enhancing China-EU relations amid a complex global landscape, emphasizing the importance of partnership and cooperation.
As China continues its path toward high-quality development, the strengthened ties with the EU signal a promising future for bilateral cooperation, benefiting both regions and contributing to global stability.
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Xi says China supports European integration, EU strategic autonomy
cgtn.com
