Beijing: As agreed between China and the EU, President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen will visit China on July 24. President Xi Jinping will meet with them. Premier of the State Council Li Qiang and the two EU leaders will jointly chair the 25th China-EU Summit, the Chinese Foreign Ministry announced on Monday.
Commenting on the upcoming 25th China-EU Summit, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday that as two major forces in building a multipolar world, two big markets that support globalization, and two great civilizations that advocate cultural diversity, the upcoming China-EU Summit is of great significance and receives international attention.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-EU diplomatic ties as well as the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN. As changes unseen in a century are accelerating in a turbulent world, and unilateralism and bullying practices have dealt a heavy blow to international order and rules, humanity once again stands at a critical juncture, the spokesperson said.
“This summit is an opportunity to engage with China at the highest level and have frank, constructive discussions on issues that matter to both of us. We want dialogue, real engagement and concrete progress. We aim for a fair, balanced relationship that delivers for both sides,” Costa said in an official post on the European Council’s website.
Observers noted that differences have emerged between the two sides on various issues, including the EU’s imposition of anti-subsidy tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and restrictions on the participation of Chinese companies in public procurement of medical equipment. Chinese side also took necessary moves to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.
-The Daily Mail-Global Times News Exchange Items
