China and EU should maintain “open attitude” and reject protectionism, says Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi
BEIJING, Sept 18 (Reuters) – Chinese state media reported on Monday that China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has urged China and the European Union (EU) to continue maintaining an “open attitude” and “reject protectionism”. Wang’s remarks come amid escalating trade tensions between the two economic powers.
State-backed Xinhua quoted Wang as saying that China has consistently supported the EU’s strategic independence and European integration. He emphasized the importance of both sides maintaining an “open attitude, firmly supporting free trade, rejecting protectionism, and achieving the positive effects of China-EU cooperation”.
Wang also highlighted that “China-EU cooperation outweighs differences and the two sides are partners instead of rivals”. This statement reflects China’s willingness to strengthen ties with the EU despite the ongoing trade disputes.
These comments were made during Wang’s meeting with Malta’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carmelo Abela, on Saturday. During the meeting, China and Malta agreed to work together to promote China-European Union cooperation, according to Xinhua.
China hopes that Malta will continue to play a positive role in the development of China-EU relations, Wang stated.
Wang’s remarks come only days after the European Commission launched an investigation into potentially imposing punitive tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports. The Commission claims that these imports benefit from excessive state subsidies.
The escalating trade tensions between China and the EU have raised concerns globally about the impact on global trade. However, Wang’s statement emphasizes China’s commitment to maintaining an “open attitude” and advocating for free trade.
The development of China-EU relations remains crucial for both sides, and it is hoped that ongoing discussions and negotiations will lead to a peaceful resolution of trade disputes.
Reporting by Liz Lee and Shanghai newsroom; Editing by Jamie Freed and Michael Perry
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. Acquire Licensing Rights, opens new tab