On May 11, 2026, the Mission of China to the EU and Zhejiang Province co-hosted a thematic promotion event entitled “A New Journey for China–EU Cooperation: Discover Zhejiang” in Brussels. Ambassador Cai Run, Head of the Mission of China to the EU, Mr. Liu Xin, Deputy Director of the Standing Committee of the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Congress, and Mr. Piet Steel, Honorary Chairman of Europe-Asia Center attended and addressed the event. Nearly 150 guests were present, including Mr. Fei Shengchao, Chinese Ambassador to Belgium, officials from EU institutions, representatives from major European media outlets and think tanks, guest from various sectors and diplomatic envoys to the EU. 

In his speech, Ambassador Cai Run noted that China-EU relations now carry greater strategic significance and global influence. This year marks the beginning of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan period, bringing important opportunities for China-EU practical cooperation in various fields. Zhejiang Province serves as an important bridge for China-EU exchanges and an active participant and contributor to China-EU cooperation. European friends are welcome to visit China and Zhejiang, and experience firsthand a real, multidimensional, and comprehensive China. China stands ready to work with the EU side to seize opportunities, address challenges, and deliver new outcomes in bilateral cooperation.

Deputy Director Liu Xin stated that Zhejiang Province and the EU enjoy a solid foundation for subnational cooperation, with fruitful outcomes achieved over the years. During the 15th Five-Year Plan period, Zhejiang will continue to leverage its strengths in innovation and advance high-standard opening-up, while working hand in hand with European partners to forge a new chapter of mutually beneficial cooperation.

Honorary Chairman Piet Steel noted that Europe and China should strengthen their partnership, draw on each other’s strengths, and make contributions to a safer, more stable, and more sustainable world.

Ambassador Cai toured the thematic exhibition “The Eastward Gaze of Civilization” with the guests. The event was held in a warm and friendly atmosphere.