Creating a brighter future for Sino-EU relations

[2009-02-02 15:43:00]

The development of the Sino-EU relations in the last 30 or so years shows that as long as both sides stick to the spirit of mutual trust, mutual respect, mutual benefit, and properly consider each other's grave concerns, the relationship would surely continue to move forward.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (L) holds talks with Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero in Madrid, capital of Spain, Jan. 30, 2009.(Xinhua/Yao Dawei)
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And as long as both sides uphold the principle of seeking common ground while maintaining differences, they would surely set an example for the harmonious coexistence and common development of different social systems and cultures.

To create a brighter future for the China-EU ties will depend on both sides' efforts to face down negative factors, overcome hurdles, jointly appreciate and develop the hard-won good situation.

Due to some well-known reasons, the Sino-EU ties suffered some setbacks last year. However, China has always firmly believed thatthe general direction of the Sino-EU ties will not change, both sides' will to enhance cooperation and jointly cope with challenges will not change, and the Chinese policy of favoring theSino-EU comprehensive strategic partnership will also not change.

Some EU leaders have recently said that despite the existence of various problems, the EU attaches great importance to its relationship with China and it is EU's set policy to promote the Sino-EU all-round strategic partnership and bilateral cooperation in all fields.

They have also voiced EU's willingness to closely cooperate with China and seek new development of bilateral ties in the new year.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel (L) meets with visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao prior to their breakfast at the Chancellor's office in Berlin, Germany, Jan. 29, 2009. Merkel invited Wen, who is in Germany for an official visit, to breakfast Thursday morning. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)
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The creation of a brighter future for the Sino-EU relations also depends on the EU's growing awareness that China will stick to its reform and opening-up drive, and that the country that seeks to develop itself by peaceful means, by opening itself up and by cooperation with other countries, provides an opportunity and will make contribution to Europe and the world at large.

With regards to China's development and their expectations to cooperate with China, EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana told Xinhua recently that, "We have great respect for China and admire the tremendous steps forward having taken place in China."

Barroso, head of the European Commission, said it is good to see China developing and becoming more prosperous, which conforms to the interests of the EU, and China has become an indispensable partner of cooperation with the EU.

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said his country, Europe and many other countries in the world can benefit from China's development.

As all fresh water comes from its source, the firm confidence in the future prospects of the Sino-EU relations is rooted in the fact that in an era dominated by willingness to seek peace, promote development and enhance cooperation, China and the EU are witnessing the expansion of their common interests, the increase of their mutual responsibilities, the consolidation of the basis for their cooperation and the strengthening of their exchanges and cooperation, which is where the vital force for pushing forward the Sino-EU ties resides.

And when both sides develop their comprehensive strategic partnership with deep historical and broad global vision, they will certainly make important far-reaching contributions to the common cause of mankind.

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