Closer EU-China cooperation

The world is going through rapid changes and global readjustments caused by globalization and increased inter-connectedness between countries and peoples. This trend has brought us closer together, has helped us know each other better and understand the other's needs in a clearer manner. The shortening of the distances has cut across many areas. In the emerging new global order every country is shaped by what is happening around it.

All actors, big and small, should play their part in fostering even closer global cooperation. To this effect, a stronger EU-China cooperation is not only desirable but a true necessity. This has been made once again strikingly evident with the current world economic uncertainties. The crisis which started across the Atlantic, has hit Europe and is having repercussions throughout the world. Reinvigorating economic growth, creating jobs, ensuring financial stability, promoting social inclusion and making globalization serve the needs of the people are today's most important priorities.

China and the EU, as two pillars of world's economy, need to do their part to contribute to a strong and a balanced global growth. The European Union is doing whatever it takes to overcome the current situation in the eurozone by correcting budgetary imbalances, and taking active measures to enhance growth and competitiveness and create jobs. At the same time, China's plan to rebalance its growth model is not only key to securing more resilient, inclusive and sustainable growth in China, it is also a crucial contribution to the rebalancing of demand needed at the global level. Implementing the Action Plan for Growth and delivering on the G20 Cannes Summit conclusions should therefore be part of our common response and bilateral agenda.