Chinese President Xi Jinping has affirmed his willingness to collaborate with European Union leaders to increase mutual openness and manage disputes constructively, as both sides mark 50 years of diplomatic relations. According to state news agency Xinhua, Xi emphasized the importance of stable China-EU ties amid global trade uncertainty, largely driven by U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump.

Although Xi did not directly mention the United States, his comments reflect China’s efforts to strengthen economic and political ties with Europe to counterbalance U.S. trade pressures. He described China-EU relations as “one of the world’s most influential,” urging both parties to uphold fairness and reject unilateralism.

China also expressed readiness to host European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for a new round of high-level talks. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian confirmed that strategic, economic, green development, and digitalization dialogues are planned for this year.

Additionally, recent progress includes China agreeing to lift sanctions on EU lawmakers, a move that could signal improved diplomatic relations. The sanctions were originally imposed in 2021 in response to EU criticisms of China’s treatment of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang.

Spokesperson Lin emphasized that stronger cooperation and dialogue are essential, expressing optimism that renewed engagement will revitalize China-EU relations.