Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

When asked to comment on the EU's push to reduce dependence on China, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian responded on Monday at a regular press conference that between China and Europe, the industrial and supply chains are highly integrated and mutually dependent. This is shaped by economic globalization and market force and has served both Chinese and European businesses well.

"European companies make their choice based on cost, technology and efficiency. How is that 'over-dependence'? Isn't 'diversification' in this case just another version of protectionism?" 

Lin said that this sort of measures will not make the European industry more competitive, and they certainly go against the EU's own stated principles of market economy, fair competition and free trade.

Do not do unto others what you would not have others do unto you. China-EU trade is not a zero-sum game. There is no reason why China and the EU can't succeed together, Lin said.

The Chinese side is willing and open to working with the EU on trade issues. We hope the EU will work with the Chinese side to find solutions through dialogue and consultation, and let the business communities and people of both sides to benefit even more from China-EU trade, according to the spokesperson.


Global Times