Chinese Premier Li Qiang called for strengthened cooperation between China and the European Union during high-level talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in New York this week, emphasizing shared responsibilities in stabilizing global affairs during turbulent times.
The meeting coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, with Premier Li highlighting President Xi Jinping's earlier discussions with EU leaders in July as foundational to current collaboration. Both sides reaffirmed commitments to implement consensus reached at September's 25th China-EU Summit, which focused on trade alignment and climate action.
"Our relations have weathered geopolitical storms by prioritizing dialogue over division," Premier Li stated, underscoring the need to avoid politicizing economic matters. He urged adherence to WTO rules and fair competition principles while expanding cooperation in green energy transitions – a field where von der Leyen praised China's "exemplary" environmental efforts.
The EU leader echoed commitments to resolve differences through consultation, identifying climate policy coordination and development aid as key areas for joint action. Both parties emphasized their roles as stabilizing forces amid rising global uncertainties, with von der Leyen noting: "When major economies collaborate strategically, the world benefits."
Analysts observe the dialogue signals cautious optimism for balancing competition with shared priorities like sustainable development, particularly as both economies navigate post-pandemic recovery and energy security challenges.
