China and the EU seek to build foundation on which to further deepen their relations

Although China and the European Union have some differences on certain issues, such as the Ukraine crisis and trade, the friendly and pragmatic exchanges between EU senior officials and visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday clearly indicate both sides are still dedicated to resolving their differences and deepening their cooperation through dialogue and negotiation.

The differences between China and the EU have never hindered their relationship from developing into one of the most influential ties in the world since diplomatic relations were founded 50 years ago, which has not only brought tangible benefits to both peoples, but also contributed to the common good of the world. So their differences should not be a cause for estrangement today.

It is their broad common interests, great cooperation potential and shared stance on multilateralism and a rules-based world order with the United Nations at its center that have provided the foundation on which they have always been able to stabilize their relations. There is no reason why that should not be the case today.