China has invited European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to visit for high-level discussions, marking a new phase in bilateral cooperation as the two sides celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian announced the planned visit during a Tuesday press briefing, emphasizing mutual respect as the cornerstone of their partnership.
The upcoming China-EU leaders' meeting will focus on strategic coordination, economic cooperation, and green-digital innovation, alongside cultural and academic exchanges. Lin noted the combined economic might of both parties now exceeds one-third of global GDP, with their bilateral trade accounting for over a quarter of worldwide commerce.
"Choosing dialogue over division creates opportunities for shared progress," Lin stated, highlighting plans for sector-specific events in sports, youth programs, and cross-industry collaboration. The invitation underscores China's commitment to stabilizing globalization trends through what officials describe as "open, equal-footed engagement."
