Beijing and the European Economic Community, which was the precursor of the current European Union (EU), established relations on May 6, 1975.

In this regard, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian underscored on Tuesday that one of the significant lessons learned in this time is the need for mutual respect and the search for common ground while managing differences.

The spokesperson stated that, “Despite their different histories, cultures, and systems, China and the EU can move forward through dialogue, exchange, and open cooperation.”

Lin pointed out that the world is facing profound transformations, and unilateralism, protectionism, and hegemony affect the international order, thus placing humanity at a critical crossroads.

However, he affirmed that “China-EU cooperation outweighs competition, consensus surpasses differences, and opportunities greatly exceed risks.”

Lin recalled that the two sides account for more than a third of the world’s economic output and more than a quarter of global trade.

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