Xi Says China, EU Must Deepen Trust, But Bloc's Chief Calls for 'Real Solutions'

Leaders Agree to Enhance Climate Action Cooperation, But Sources of Friction Remain

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BEIJING — Chinese President Xi Jinping said China and the European Union must deepen trust in a turbulent world, but the bloc's chief called for "real solutions" to move past an inflection point as they met in Beijing on July 24.

China's leadership has sought to draw the EU closer as it positions itself as a more reliable partner than the U.S. and a bedrock of stability in a troubled world.

But the EU has made it clear there are deep divisions over trade, fears that cheap, subsidized Chinese goods could overwhelm European markets, and Beijing's tacit support for Russia's war against Ukraine.

Though the meeting was nominally intended to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties, the long list of grievances set the stage for a contentious summit.

Welcoming EU Commission head Ursula von der Leyen and European Council chief Antonio Costa at Beijing's ornate Great Hall of the People, Mr. Xi said: "The more severe and complex the international situation is, the more important it is for China and the EU to strengthen communication, increase mutual trust, and deepen cooperation."

In the context of that turmoil, Mr. Xi said, Chinese and European leaders must "make correct strategic choices."

"The challenges facing Europe at present do not come from China," he added.