Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on China and the European Union to work together to build a stable and balanced relationship as key trading partners, saying both sides stand to gain from cooperation, but lose from confrontation.
Wang made the remarks during a phone conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Tuesday, expressing hope that the EU would meet China halfway and that France — as a key EU member state — would play a constructive role in that regard.
Wang said maintaining the healthy and stable development of China-France relations serves the interests of both countries and the international community.
The two sides should strengthen dialogue and cooperation, consolidate political mutual trust, and jointly address various risks and challenges, he said.
Wang expressed hope that France would uphold the one-China principle through concrete actions and safeguard the political foundation of bilateral relations.
Noting that China and France are both founding members of the United Nations and permanent members of the UN Security Council, Wang said maintaining communication and strengthening coordination on international developments is crucial to upholding the international system with the UN at its core.
China stands ready to work with France to fulfill their special responsibilities as permanent members of the Security Council and safeguard the common interests of the international community, he said.
Barrot told Wang that France is ready to play an active role in promoting dialogue and cooperation between the EU and China.
He noted that France has always attached great importance to China's status as a major country and remains committed to the one-China policy.
France hopes to maintain high-level exchanges with China, deepen strategic mutual trust, and strengthen communication and coordination on major issues, including UN affairs and artificial intelligence, he said.
He expressed France's willingness to work with China to defend multilateralism, safeguard global security and stability, and promote common development and prosperity.
Both sides also exchanged views on issues of mutual concern, including the selection of the next UN secretary-general.
