Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi talks to High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell, February 8, 2021. /Chinese Foreign Ministry
Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday highlighted the fruitful cooperation between China and the European Union (EU) when holding a video conversation with High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell.
Speaking of the development of China-EU ties, Wang said the most important point is stay committed to peaceful coexistence, inclusive cooperation, multilateralism and open dialogue.
Competition exists between China and the EU, Wang admitted, but stressed that cooperation far outweighs the competition.
There are also differences, but there are far more consensuses between the two sides, the Chinese foreign minister added, pointing out that China and the EU can make big progress as long as the two sides think from their common interests and make decisions independently.
Noting that the leaders of the two sides announced completion of the China-EU investment agreement negotiations, Wang called on the two sides to grasp the opportunity to enhance all-round dialogue and cooperation, jointly safeguard multilateralism, tackle global challenges together so as to push forward China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership to a higher level.
Proposing all-round cooperation between China and the EU, Wang specified the two sides can expand cooperation in areas such as the environment, finance, sports and epidemic control.
Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (L) talks to High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell, February 8, 2021. /Chinese Foreign Ministry
Borrell, for his part, acknowledged the importance and irreplaceability of China-EU cooperation while reiterated that the EU is ready to have a frank conversation with China to push forward the signing and ratification of the investment agreement, and to step up cooperation on climate change, environmental and biodiversity protection and sports.
China on Wednesday announced a plan to provide 10 million coronavirus vaccine doses through the global COVAX initiative to meet the urgent need of developing countries. Borrell said the EU welcomes the decision and is willing to deepen cooperation on vaccine with China and to enhance support to the World Health Organization in assisting developing countries.
The Chinese foreign minister also stated facts and China's stance on issues related to Xinjiang, Hong Kong and human rights, reiterating China's opposition to foreign interference and spread of lies and fake information. He hoped the EU would respect the truth and view the issues objectively.
The two sides also exchanged in-depth views on relationship with the U.S., situation in Myanmar, Iran nuclear issues and other regional and global questions of common concerns.