On the morning of May 17, Minister Peng Gang of the Chinese Mission to the European Union was invited to attend and deliver a keynote speech at the online seminar on China-EU economic and trade relations organized by the Belgian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce (BCECC). The seminar was also attended by President Dewitt of BCECC, Adeline Hinderer, Head of the Far East Unit in DG Trade of the European Commission, and Dominic Boucsein, Head of the International Trade and Foreign Policy of the European Association of Chambers of Commerce & Industry as well as over 30 representatives of Chinese and European businesses.

In his keynote speech, Peng said the China-EU Summit held on April 1 was of great significance. It strengthened the foundation for the steady development of China-EU relations and injected new impetus into deepening cooperation in various fields. It also provided an important platform for the two sides to discuss global hotspot issues. At the moment, the international situation is changing, the COVID-19 pandemic and the crisis in Ukraine have a profound impact on the world, and economic globalization encounters difficulties and challenges unseen before. China and the EU are important partners. At this crucial moment, it’s important for the two sides to make a correct choice between “opening the door” and “closing the door”, and between cooperation and “decoupling”. This is the common aspiration of the business communities of both sides. The choice we make will also affect the future of the world in a profound way. China is serious in providing an enabling business environment for foreign businesses, including EU businesses. China also hopes that the EU side will adhere to fairness and openness to provide more favorable conditions for Chinese businesses in Europe.

At the seminar, Peng also answered questions including China’s COVID-19 policy and the China-EU investment agreement.