China and the EU are partners, not rivals.

Leaders of China and the European Union (EU) are expected to discuss global economic and strategic issues of mutual concern.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin at a regular press conference on December 4. (Source: Chinese Foreign Ministry)

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said this in response to a question from a Japanese NHK reporter at a regular press conference on December 4.

On December 7, Chinese Premier Li Qiang will co-chair the 24th Summit in Beijing with European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Beijing attaches great importance to the conference. Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet with Charles Michel and Ursula von der Leyen.

The leaders of the two sides will have an in-depth exchange of views on key strategic issues for the direction of China-EU relations as well as global issues of common concern to draw up a detailed plan, determine the focus and create momentum for China-EU relations.

The China-EU Summit is an annual meeting between the leaders of the two sides and provides strategic guidance for the development of China-EU relations. This year's summit coincides with the 20th anniversary of the China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership and the 25th anniversary of the China-EU Summit mechanism.

According to the spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, in the context of the volatile international situation, stagnant world economy and emerging global challenges, China-EU relations are facing new opportunities and challenges.

Stressing that China and the EU are “partners, not rivals,” Wang said that “our common interests far outweigh our differences.” Beijing hopes that the upcoming summit will play an important role by “building on past achievements, enhancing mutual understanding and trust through strategic communication, promoting win-win cooperation through innovation, and discussing solutions through dialogue and consultation.”

The two sides can work together to address global challenges, inject new impetus into the world economy, enhance stability in the international situation, and provide strategic guidance for the sustainable and healthy development of China-EU relations.

"This serves the fundamental and long-term interests of both China and the EU, and meets the common aspirations of the international community," spokesman Wang Wenbin affirmed.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/trung-quoc-va-eu-la-doi-tac-chu-khong-phai-doi-thu-252611.html