China pushes back on EU trade criticism, warns against 'megaphone diplomacy'

China on Thursday reiterated that its position on its trade and economic relations with the European Union (EU) is consistent and clear, saying it does not engage in "megaphone diplomacy" or trade barbs.

Ministry of Commerce spokesman He Yadong on Thursday made the remarks in response to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's recent State of the Union address, in which she described the EU's trade deficit with China as having reached "a tipping point" and referred to a so-called "second China shock."

"We have taken note of the relevant remarks. I would like to stress that China's position and attitude are consistent and clear. At the same time, we do not engage in 'megaphone diplomacy' or trade barbs," the spokesman said.

China attaches great importance to economic and trade cooperation with BRICS countries and will actively promote the achievement of more practical results in the framework, Ministry of Commerce spokesman He Yadong said on Thursday.

Speaking at a regular press briefing in Beijing, He said that to date, BRICS has held 16 Trade Ministers' Meetings and produced more than 60 outcome documents on issues including trade and investment facilitation, support for the multilateral trading system, standards cooperation, supply chains, the digital economy and green development.

China will assume the BRICS chairmanship in 2027 and host the 19th BRICS Summit.

The spokesman said his ministry will make efforts in preparing related events to facilitate more cooperation.

"The Ministry of Commerce will actively prepare for next year's economic and trade events and hold the BRICS Forum on Trade in Services next year in an effort to cultivate new drivers of economic and trade cooperation. [The MOC] will empower the China Center for Cooperation on Development of Special Economic Zones in BRICS Countries and strive to deliver more practical outcomes in areas such as the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and green development, helping 'greater BRICS' achieve greater development," said He.

BRICS was initially formed by Brazil, Russia, India and China in 2006, with South Africa joining later. The bloc has since grown to 11 member countries and 10 partner countries, becoming an important force in advancing a multipolar world and greater democracy in international relations.