Beijing lends a hand to Europe
Updated: 2012-02-15 07:04
By Ding Qingfen and Cheng Guangjin (China Daily)
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During the past few days, both officials and entrepreneurs have expressed their concerns about European government bonds and progress in solving European debt problems.
The European sovereign debt crisis is at a "critical juncture", and European leaders must take proactive measures, said Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Weimin.
Speaking at a forum on Monday, Lou Jiwei, chairman of China Investment Corp, China's sovereign wealth fund, said it's difficult for long-term investors, including his company, to buy European government debt, and investment opportunities are more likely in infrastructure and industrial projects.
Economic ties
Barroso said that China and the EU should strengthen cooperation, especially during this time of crisis.
The summit, which was postponed from December, focused on European debt issues, economic and trade ties and international affairs.
China and the EU have reached consensus on major economic aspects, Wen said.
These include promoting two-way investment and expanding trade. They also include strengthening cooperation in scientific research, innovation, energy and environmental protection and deepening cooperation in urbanization between the two nations, Wen said.
China and the EU will start negotiations on a series of issues this year. One of the most important issues is initiating talks on China-EU investment agreements.
Barroso also suggested that China provide a better business environment and more openness for European companies doing business in China.
Wen said the success of European companies showed opportunity in the market.
"European companies have been reaping sustainable profits and many have plans to boost investment, which indicates China is a market full of opportunities and dynamism," Wen said.
The EU is the largest trade partner for China and a major source of technology transfers to China.
Since 2008, China has sent more than 30 trade and investment promotion delegations to the EU, leading to agreements worth $150 billion.
Syrian issue
Referring to recent developments in Syria, Wen said "what is most urgent and pressing" is to "prevent war and chaos" so that the Syrian people will be free from even greater suffering.
"China will absolutely not harbor any party," Wen said.
Some countries criticized China for blocking a draft United Nations Security Council resolution on Syria.
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