China's Foreign Minister Urges EU to Balance Trade, Stresses Partnership

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on European lawmakers to foster a more balanced and positive trade relationship with China. Meeting a delegation from the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee in Beijing, Wang advocated for an "upward dynamic balance" in bilateral trade ties from a long-term perspective.

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China and Europe are partners rather than rivals and their interests are deeply intertwined.

Wang stressed that China and the EU are partners, not rivals, with deeply intertwined interests. He urged the lawmakers to promote a "rational and objective perception of China" within the European Union and to adopt "positive and correct policies toward China."

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The two sides should uphold the overarching orientation of partnership, and view and handle specific issues that arise in the course of the development of bilateral relations within this framework.

The discussions covered a range of critical issues, including trade imbalances, the Ukraine crisis, human rights, and artificial intelligence. The EU has been considering stricter measures to address its growing trade deficit with China, with member states showing a convergence of views on the issue. Formal trade talks are expected later this year.

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The EU has been weighing tougher measures to curb its growing trade deficit with China.

China's foreign ministry released a statement summarizing the meeting, highlighting Wang's willingness to enhance coordination and cooperation with Europe on global affairs. The minister also articulated China's stance on the various sensitive topics discussed.

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China and the EU are due to hold trade talks under a trade and investment consultation mechanism later this year.