Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday expressed hope that the new Austrian government will continue to pursue a friendly policy toward China, promote bilateral relations to jointly address current global challenges, and play a constructive role in international peace and development.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during a phone conversation with Austria's Minister for European and International Affairs Beate Meinl-Reisinger, at the latter's request.
Wang told Meinl-Reisinger that China stands ready to strengthen high-level exchanges with the European Union (EU) and take the opportunity of the 50th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic relations to jointly usher in another 50 years of successful cooperation with the EU, and urged Austria to be an active participant in this process.
Noting that the United States' unilateral imposition of tariffs has seriously undermined international economic and trade rules and order, Wang called on China and the EU, as two major economies and markets, to shoulder their international responsibilities.
Meinl-Reisinger highlighted the importance of China as a key partner for Austria in Asia and noted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of EU-China diplomatic relations.
She also said the EU looks forward to further strengthening economic and trade ties with China, and affirmed that the EU will stay united in defending its interests and upholding the multilateral trading system.
Chinese FM hopes new Austrian government will continue friendly policy toward China
