China and the European Union should be seen as partners, not rivals, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during a telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron's diplomatic adviser, Emmanuel Bonne, Reuters and Xinhua reported, BTA reports.
Wang Yi pointed out that Beijing and Brussels share similar positions on issues such as support for the principle of multipolarity and the ability to resolve trade disputes through dialogue.
He noted that the international situation in the new year has become more unstable, with increasing uncertainty and unrest. "As major countries striving for independence and autonomy, China and France should strengthen communication and coordination to bring necessary stability to the world and leverage the strategic value of Sino-French relations," Wang Yi was quoted as saying by the Global Times.
The Chinese foreign minister recalled that the partnership between China and the EU has been proven by over 50 years of fruitful cooperation. He called for strengthening dialogue, building mutual trust and deepening cooperation.
Wang Yi also pointed out that the recent visits of leaders of several European countries to China have contributed to strengthening relations, and expressed the hope that France will continue to play a constructive role within the EU, supporting the stable and healthy development of Sino-European relations.