Chinese-European relations essential for global peace, security: President Xi

December 7, 2023

- Chinese president meeting European leaders in Beijing ahead of 24th bilateral summit

By Islamuddin Sajid

ANKARA (AA) - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday said that China and Europe are two major forces advancing multipolarity, making relations between the two essential for global peace and security.

The comments coincide with Xi’s meeting with European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Beijing, with the European Union leaders arriving for their first in-person China-EU summit since 2019.

"China and Europe are two major forces advancing multipolarity, two major markets in support of globalization, and two major civilizations championing diversity," Xi said, according to a statement posted on X by Hua Chunying, Foreign Ministry spokesperson.

Xi added that both sides should uphold the comprehensive strategic partnership and remain partners for mutually beneficial cooperation.

"The relationship between China and Europe is essential to global peace, stability and prosperity. It is incumbent on both sides to provide greater stability for the world, stronger impetus for development, and more inspiration and support for global governance," he said.

Later Thursday Chinese Premier Li Qiang and EU leaders will jointly co-chair the 24th bilateral summit.

On Monday, Beijing said the China-EU summit will “draw a blueprint” for bilateral relations as the two sides celebrate 20 years of a comprehensive strategic partnership.