Beijing. This Sunday, China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, stated that Europe has the potential to improve its competitiveness in the Chinese market. He also encouraged European nations to set aside protectionism and to seize economic collaboration opportunities with China. Wang highlighted that since last year there has been progress in relations between China and European countries, with bilateral trade exceeding one trillion dollars and more than two million European tourists travelling to China without the need for a visa. He mentioned that «the facts show that the stability of relations between China and the EU is based on common interests,» in response to an inquiry from EFE. The statements were made during the annual press conference of the Foreign Minister, in the context of the National People’s Congress session, the most important political event in the country held each year. The minister stated that «China’s position regarding the development of relations with the EU is clear: we have always maintained that Europe is a fundamental axis in a multipolar world and a significant influence in preserving order and stability at the international level.» Wang asserted that Chinese authorities have noticed a growing number of people in Europe recognising that China is not a competitor but a global ally. He also emphasised that Europe is a partner in achieving China’s modernisation. The diplomat further pointed out that «European leaders have been visiting China and Europe rapidly and consecutively, and exchanges are becoming increasingly close,» referring to the recent visits by leaders from nations such as Germany, Finland, and France to the Asian country. Wang’s press conference takes place against a backdrop of tensions between Beijing and the Twenty-Seven, due to issues such as Chinese-origin electric vehicles, telecommunications, and the restrictions imposed by China on strategic materials such as rare earths.
