Chinese Premier at the China-EU Summit: Cooperation Must Remain the Cornerstone of Bilateral Relations

Amid growing geopolitical tensions and global economic volatility, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized that cooperation and strategic partnership should define China-EU relations, not confrontation or rivalry.

His statements came during the 25th China-EU Summit, held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, alongside European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

50 Years of Diplomatic Ties – A Common Legacy to Uphold

Li Qiang recalled that China-EU bilateral relations have been shaped over five decades through dialogue, trust, and mutual benefit. The outcomes are visible: rising trade flows, strategic joint investments, academic cooperation, and cultural exchanges.

“History has repeatedly shown that when mutual respect, openness, and understanding prevail, China-EU cooperation brings real benefits. When relations are disrupted or tense, both sides suffer — economically and politically,” the premier stressed.

China and the EU – Two Global Powers with a Shared Vision for a Multipolar World

In a geopolitical context where traditional economic orders are being challenged and protectionist tendencies are on the rise, Li Qiang called for reinforcing a multilateral global economic order based on rules, dialogue, and power balance.

He described China and the European Union as “two major global forces” and “two key markets”, whose partnership is vital not only for internal growth but also for global economic and political stability.

Economy and Trade: The Engine of China-EU Cooperation

China-EU economic ties are undeniably massive in scale and strategic in scope:

• The EU is China’s second-largest trading partner, while China is the EU’s third-largest.

• Bilateral trade exceeds €847 billion annually (2024 estimates).

• Their cooperation spans sectors such as technology, green energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and artificial intelligence.

Li Qiang emphasized that defending free trade is crucial to maintaining global economic momentum, while protectionism would be counterproductive, disrupting supply chains and economic growth.

Multilateralism as a Response to Global Fragmentation

The Chinese premier reaffirmed his country’s commitment to multilateralism, contrasting with the rising trends of isolationism and unilateralism seen in parts of the world.

“So long as China and the EU truly uphold free trade and multilateral cooperation, the world will move steadily toward a more balanced, stable, and multipolar order,” Li stated.

A Call to Deepen Strategic Partnership

In conclusion, Premier Li delivered a clear message: Beijing is committed to deepening strategic dialogue with the European Union, overcoming differences through engagement and building on shared interests to benefit citizens and economies on both sides.

“China will continue to work with the EU to make this relationship a model of effective and sustainable global cooperation,” concluded Li Qiang.