At the press conference on March 8, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke of China-Europe relations.

Wang Yi noted, since last year, relations between China and European countries have been regaining strength. Two-way trade topped US$1 trillion, over two million European tourists traveled to China under visa-free policies, and, European leaders paid a number of visits. Interactions are more active. A host of new cooperation agreements have been reached. Facts have shown that China-Europe relations draw stability from shared interests and certainty from mutually beneficial partnerships.

Wang Yi pointed out, China has a clear stance on developing relations with Europe. We consistently believe that Europe should naturally be a pole in a multipolar world, that Europe is an important force underpinning the stability of the international order, and that Europe is a key partner for China in our modernization. For China-Europe relations to stay steady and sound, it is crucial for Europe to have a correct perception of China. We are witnessing a growing consensus among wise minds in Europe that China is not a “competitor” but an “global partner.” This is especially true among young people. They are looking at China in a more objective and positive way.

Wang Yi stressed that in trade and economic ties, China and Europe are mutually complementary. A dynamic balance is entirely within reach amid growing ties. As testified by the facts in China-Europe cooperation, interdependence is not a risk; intertwined interests are not threats; and openness and cooperation will not weaken economic security; but building walls and barriers will only lead to self-isolation. We are glad to see European friends stepping out of the “small attic” of protectionism and walking into the “fitness club” of the Chinese market to build their strength and competitiveness.