Premier Li to attend 22nd China-EU leaders' meeting on June 22
Updated 17:16, 19-Jun-2020
CGTN

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang will attend the 22nd China-EU leaders' meeting via video conference with Charles Michel, president of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, on June 22, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian told a press briefing on Friday.

China and the EU have made efforts to reschedule their high-level dialogues amid COVID-19. The leadership meeting was scheduled to take place in March in Beijing. 

Stronger China-EU cooperation needed in COVID-19 era 

Last week, Premier Li also held a video conference with Germany's chancellor Angela Merkel to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic and measures to boost bilateral ties. 

The two leaders agreed to cooperate robustly, despite the worldwide disruption brought about by the coronavirus crisis. 

Members of Chinese aid team arrive at Fiumicino Airport in Rome, Italy, March 12, 2020. /Xinhua

Members of Chinese aid team arrive at Fiumicino Airport in Rome, Italy, March 12, 2020. /Xinhua

Li said China has always respected Europe's integration and is glad to see a unified and prosperous EU. 

"We are willing to maintain high-level exchanges with Europe, promote pragmatic cooperation and strive to complete the negotiation of the China-EU investment agreement at an early date to better achieve common development," he added. 

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China-EU relations need not be 'knock-out match,' says Chinese ambassador to EU

In another phone conversation with von der Leyen in March, Li underlined China's firm stance to support EU's anti-epidemic efforts, and facilitate its procurement of medical supplies through commercial channels. 

Li also expressed hope that the EU will attach importance to ensuring the safety of and bringing convenience to life of Chinese citizens, including overseas students, in EU countries.