On June 23, 2008, Ambassador Song Zhe, Head of the Mission of the People's Republic of China to the European Communities, met with Mr. Watson, Chairman of the ALDE Group. Ambassador Song reiterated that China attaches importance to developing relations with the EU. He pointed out that close cooperation between China and EU is a must not only for development of China or EU themselves, but also for tackling global challenges and resolving major hotspot issues in the world. Therefore, we must ensure a sound relationship with each other and we cannot afford a relationship that is otherwise. Ambassador Song hoped the European Parliament and the ALDE Group will do still more to contribute to the development of China-EU relations.

Mr. Watson stated that the European Parliament and the ALDE Group are willing to play a positive role in strengthening the China-EU relations. The two sides also exchanged views on other issues with common interest.