China ready to boost communication and coordination with EU

China is ready to strengthen communication and coordination with the European Union to make solid preparations for a new round of China-EU summit and to open new prospects for the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two sides, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during a meeting in Brussels on Wednesday.

In talks with European Council President Antonio Costa, Wang emphasized that China views Europe as a key force in a multipolar world and that Beijing's policy toward Europe remains consistent and stable. He reaffirmed China's long-standing support for European integration and expressed China's hopes for the EU to enhance its strategic autonomy and play a greater role on the international stage.

Noting that unilateralism and acts of bullying are seriously undermining international order and rules, Wang further underlined the need for China and the EU to strengthen solidarity and coordination to become a force for stability in a turbulent world. China and the EU should respect each other's core interests, enhance mutual understanding and trust and achieve mutual success to illuminate the world, he added.

Costa noted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the EU and China - an important opportunity to advance the relationship. He said both sides share a commitment to multilateralism and have responsibilities to jointly send clear and strong signals on key issues to inject stability, confidence, and positive expectations into the world at a time of rising global uncertainty.

While acknowledging differences between the EU and China, Costa said the EU is willing to engage with China in a spirit of mutual respect, to rise above differences, deepen understanding, and work together to address global challenges.

He expressed the EU's hope for joint efforts to ensure the success of the EU-China summit, and reiterated that the EU will continue to firmly adhere to the one-China policy.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis. Wang stressed that China will continue to decide its position based on the merits of the matter itself, firmly stand on the side of peace, and play a constructive role in promoting dialogue for peace and seeking a political settlement of the crisis.

On the same day, Wang also held talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels.