At the China-EU Business Leaders Symposium in Beijing, Chinese premier Li Qiang and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made a joint call for deeper trade and investment ties to boost economic resilience and vitality amid rising global uncertainties.
Li emphasized that cooperation is "the only correct choice" after five decades of diplomatic ties. Facing a wave of protectionism and unilateralism, he urged both sides to uphold free trade and multilateralism, and to work together to stabilize international supply and industrial chains.
Key focus areas include trade in services, sci-tech innovation, the green economy and third-party cooperation. Li encouraged businesses to stay open, align their needs and deepen collaboration in industrial investment, market expansion and joint research and development.
The Chinese mainland will continue expanding high-level opening-up by shortening its negative list for foreign investment, strengthening intellectual property protection and safeguarding fair competition. "We welcome more European businesses to invest and pursue long-term operations in China," Li said, while calling on the EU to ensure a fair, equitable and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese enterprises in Europe.
Von der Leyen praised China as both an industrial powerhouse and a top performer in innovation. She said the EU is ready to use the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations as a springboard for a long-term, stable and mutually beneficial partnership. The EU plans to enhance cooperation in trade and investment, promote industrial and supply chain stability, manage differences properly and foster a favorable business environment. She stressed that the EU has no intention to decouple from China and welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest in Europe.
Why it matters: For young entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts, deeper China-EU ties could unlock new markets in services, innovation and green tech. Thought leaders see it as a win for multilateralism, while travelers and digital nomads look forward to more seamless cross-border experiences.
As both sides chart their next steps, the global community will be watching how these high-level pledges translate into real-world projects and collaborations between Europe and China's dynamic business hubs.
Reference(s):
China, EU should expand trade, investment ties: Chinese premier
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