Brussels: EU High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi co-chaired the 13th round of the EU-China Strategic Dialogue in Brussels on Wednesday. Laying groundwork for a leaders' summit in July, they engaged in discussions on bilateral issues and the broader geopolitical landscape.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Kallas reaffirmed the EU's commitment to engaging constructively with China to address global challenges. On trade, she emphasized the need for concrete solutions to rebalance the economic relationship, level the playing field, and enhance reciprocity in market access. Kallas also urged China to end its restrictive practices on rare earth exports, highlighting the risks these pose to European companies and global supply chain reliability.
The dialogue also addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Kallas pointed out the threat posed by Chinese companies' support for Russia's actions, urging China to halt all material support for Russia's military operations. She called for China to advocate for a full ceasefire and a just, lasting peace in Ukraine, respecting the United Nations Charter.
Conversations also touched on the Middle East, where both parties welcomed de-escalation between Israel and Iran. Kallas urged Iran to restart nuclear negotiations immediately, with Europe ready to facilitate talks. Both sides underscored the importance of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency in monitoring Iran's nuclear activities. Kallas stressed the need for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and unimpeded humanitarian access.
On Taiwan, Kallas reiterated the EU's commitment to the One China policy while opposing any unilateral actions to change the status quo. She also expressed concerns about human rights in China and hybrid threats in Europe linked to China. Both parties anticipated future meetings to continue addressing issues of mutual interest.