China held a reception in Beijing on Thursday to mark the 30th anniversary of its diplomatic relations with the European Union. Senior diplomats from both sides vowed to enhance dialogue and cooperation in all fields despite their differences in trade, arms sales and human rights.

"It's a long-term strategy and a common choice which is in the fundamental interests of both China and the EU to develop a comprehensive strategic partnership," Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan told visiting EU Troika foreign ministers before the reception in the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse.

Tang said both China and the EU should make good use of a coordination mechanism to grasp opportunities, eliminate disturbances, solve their major concerns so as to better serve their fundamental interests.

The EU "troika" foreign ministers, including Luxembourg Foreign Minister Jean Asselborn, EU External Relations Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner and British Foreign Secretary's representative, the British Ambassador to China Christopher Hum, also hailed the EU-China relations.

They agreed that such relationship is based on the two sides' broad cooperation in trade, investment, legislation, science and technology, environmental protection. The European Union will strive to enhance cooperation and perfect its coordination mechanism with China.

Source: Xinhua