The Chinese government issued its third policy paper on the European Union on Dec 18. This is an important proclamation of China's policy on the EU, which elaborates the goals of China's policy on the EU in the new era and the important measures to strengthen the dialogue and cooperation in various areas between China and the EU going forward, the Foreign Ministry website quoted the spokesperson Hua Chunying as saying.

The EU is a vital strategic force in the international landscape. China values the EU's role and influence in the regional and international affairs, and developing the relationship with the EU has been among the priorities of China's diplomacy, according to Hua.

The China-EU Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has continued to grow in both width and depth, forming a sound pattern of all-dimensional, multi-tier and wide-ranging exchanges and cooperation. The Chinese government hopes to deepen and broaden comprehensive cooperation with the EU, move forward China-EU relations and jointly build world peace, contribute to global development and uphold the international order, Hua said.