Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Finnish counterpart Elina Valtonen on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of strengthening China-Finland relations and urging Finland to play a constructive role within the European Union (EU).
During the talks, Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, expressed China's hope that Finland would encourage the EU to avoid politicizing economic and trade issues. He called for resolving differences through dialogue and consultation to safeguard the overall situation of China-EU relations.
Wang highlighted the decision made in 2017 by the two heads of state to elevate China-Finland relations to a future-oriented new-type cooperative partnership. He noted that this unique relationship fully reflects the distinctiveness and adaptability of the ties between the two countries.
Wang mentioned that Finnish President Alexander Stubb's upcoming state visit to China, accompanied by a high-profile delegation, is not only a continuation of the longstanding friendship but also an opportunity to expand cooperation.
He emphasized the need for the foreign ministries of both countries to maintain close communication and coordination, implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields, jointly tackle global challenges, and push China-Finland relations to a higher level.
Wang stressed that the EU's imposition of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles violates World Trade Organization (WTO) rules and the principle of free trade. He noted that China believes universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization serves the interests of all parties involved.
Elina Valtonen conveyed Finland's eagerness to work closely with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state. She expressed interest in strengthening cooperation in areas such as low-carbon technology, green energy, and the circular economy, and jointly addressing global challenges like climate change.
Valtonen stated that as a member of the EU, Finland hopes that EU-China relations will maintain constructive development. She supports both sides in strengthening cooperation and properly handling differences.
She added that Finland expects China to play a greater role in resolving international hotspot issues, such as the Ukraine crisis.
The talks between the two foreign ministers signal a mutual interest in advancing bilateral relations and collaborating on pressing global issues, reinforcing the importance of the China-Finland partnership in the current international landscape.
Reference(s):
Chinese foreign minister holds talks with Finnish counterpart
cgtn.com
