China reaffirms Europe as a partner
Beijing (ANTARA) – The Chinese government reaffirms its stance as a partner to European countries and not a competitor.
“We have always believed that Europe is a pillar in the appropriate sense within the multipolar order. Europe is an important power that maintains stability in the international order while also being a key partner in realising modernization in the Chinese way,” said Foreign Minister Wang Yi in response to a press conference on “China’s Diplomacy Policy and Foreign Relations” in Beijing, China on Sunday.
If China–Europe relations are to be stable and good, Wang Yi said the key is that Europe develop a proper understanding of China.
“We note that more and more circles in Europe realise that China is not a competitor, but a global partner, especially younger generations who view China more objectively and more positively,” Wang Yi said.
The essence of China–Europe economic and trade relations, Wang Yi said, is mutual complementarity of strengths, and can fully achieve a dynamic balance in the development process.
“The fact of China–Europe cooperation shows that interdependence is not a risk, convergence of interests is not a threat, open cooperation will not undermine economic security, while building walls and obstacles will only isolate oneself,” Wang Yi explained.
China, Wang Yi said, is pleased to see European friends step out of the “small roof” of protectionism and come to the “centre of activity” of the Chinese market to strengthen themselves and boost competitiveness here.
The closeness of China–Europe ties is at least also demonstrated by the many visits by senior European leaders to Beijing to meet President Xi Jinping.
The leaders include German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on 25-26 February 2026, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on 28-31 January 2026, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo on 24-29 January 2026.
Subsequently there is Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin on 4-8 January 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron on 3-5 December 2025, and Spanish King Felipe VI on 10-13 November 2025.