On July 2, 2025, in Brussels, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. Both sides expressed a strong willingness to deepen cooperation and jointly respond to global challenges.
Wang Yi emphasized that this year marks the 50th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic relations and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. He stressed that in an increasingly complex and challenging global landscape, it is crucial for China and the EU — two major civilizations and global powers — to enhance communication, build mutual trust, and take responsibility as forces of stability and certainty. Highlighting the significance of the upcoming China-EU leaders’ meeting, Wang said both sides should reflect on past achievements and outline a shared vision for cooperation over the next 50 years, thereby sending a positive and constructive message to the world.
Wang reiterated China’s support for European integration and called on both sides to uphold multilateralism and free trade, maintain international rules and order, peacefully resolve disputes, and work together on global issues such as climate change. He also reaffirmed China’s commitment to high-quality development and high-level opening-up, stating China is ready to deepen economic and trade ties with the EU, expand mutual openness, and manage differences through dialogue for mutual benefit and win-win outcomes.
Von der Leyen said the upcoming leaders’ meeting would be the ideal occasion to jointly commemorate 50 years of diplomatic ties. She reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to building stable and constructive relations with China based on mutual benefit, particularly in the areas of economy and trade. She said she looked forward to in-depth discussions with Chinese leaders on shared concerns, demonstrating the determination of both sides to strengthen cooperation and tackle global challenges such as climate change. Von der Leyen also reiterated that the EU would continue to adhere to the one-China policy.