Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi highlighted mutual trust as the cornerstone of China-EU relations during a press conference on Friday, marking over 50 years of diplomatic engagement between the two powers. Describing the partnership as rooted in mutual respect and multilateralism, Wang emphasized the strategic importance of sustained collaboration amid global challenges.
"The most valuable asset in China-EU relations is mutual respect," Wang stated. "Our cooperation thrives because it is built on shared interests and a commitment to addressing global issues through dialogue." Analysts interpret his remarks as a call to deepen economic integration and climate action efforts, particularly as Europe navigates energy transitions and supply chain diversification.
Since establishing formal ties in 1975, China and the EU have grown into key trading partners, with bilateral trade exceeding €2.3 billion daily in 2023. Wang cited joint initiatives in green technology and digital innovation as proof of the relationship\u2019s \u2018win-win\u2019 potential. However, he cautioned against external pressures that could undermine trust, likely alluding to recent geopolitical tensions involving third-party actors.
The foreign minister\u2019s speech also underscored the centrality of multilateral frameworks like the WTO and UN in resolving disputes. "No single country can tackle climate change or pandemics alone," he noted, urging Europe to uphold fair competition and avoid \u2018ideological barriers\u2019 in trade.
As China and the EU prepare for high-level dialogues later this year, Wang\u2019s reaffirmation of partnership signals a pragmatic approach to balancing competition with cooperation. Business leaders and policymakers worldwide will closely monitor how these evolving dynamics shape Asia-Europe investments and global governance.
