Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with a delegation from the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee in Beijing on Tuesday. According to a statement from the Chinese foreign ministry, Wang advocated for an "upward dynamic balance" in trade relations and characterized the two regions as partners with intertwined interests rather than rivals.
The meeting occurred as the European Union considers measures to address a growing trade deficit with China. European diplomats have indicated a shared concern among member states regarding current imbalances in the trade of goods. The EU's trade chief has stated a goal of achieving specific results in trade negotiations by October.
During the discussion, Wang addressed several topics including the Ukraine crisis, human rights, and artificial intelligence. He urged the European lawmakers to maintain a "rational and objective" view of China and to promote policies that support bilateral coordination in global affairs. The two parties are scheduled to hold formal trade and investment consultations later this year.