China and EU push for deeper ties in 'Intense and substantial' talks

The 10th round of high-level strategic talks between China and the EU have been described as "intense and substantial" by the EU's high representative for foreign affairs, Josep Borrell.

Borrell said: "The most important deliverable" from the three-hour long video conference was that both sides remain committed to the EU-China 2025 Agenda.

The aim of the ongoing talks is to develop a strategy to build deeper ties between both parties on everything from trade and investment to climate change and innovation.

Josep Borrell, the high representative of the EU for foreign affairs, says the EU and China have held a constructive 10th round of talks over their future relationship. /AP

"Our strategic dialogue was a very intensive and substantial meeting," said Borrell. "China is without a doubt one of the key global players. This is a fact. China will increase its global role. And we have to engage with China to achieve our global objectives based on our interests and values."

But while both sides remain committed to forging a deeper relationship, Borrell highlighted several unresolved issues including an outstanding investment deal. The EU-China Comprehensive Agreement on Investment has been in the works for nearly seven years, but both sides remain divided over market access and a level playing field. The deal was slated to be signed at a historic September summit in Germany, but that has now been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Besides investment, Borrell said he also raised concerns about China's decision to create a new security law in Hong Kong, claiming it risks undermining the One Country, Two Systems principle.

China is without a doubt one of the key global players. This is a fact. China will increase its global role. And we have to engage with China to achieve our global objectives

- Josep Borrell, high representative of the union for foreign affairs, reveals motive for EU dialogue with China

"I put on the table the need for China to de-escalate the situation and respect international commitments under Hong Kong basic law," he said.

Borrell said his Chinese counterpart, foreign minister Wang Yi, reiterated Beijing's view that the legislation does not jeopardize the One Country, Two Systems principle and is instead a way to increase security.

Despite some differences, Borrell outlined several areas of agreement. He expressed appreciation for China's support in trying to keep the Iran nuclear deal intact despite the withdrawal of the U.S..

He added that both sides agreed stability in Afghanistan needed to be maintained as the US prepares to pull troops out of the country in mid-July.

This 10th round of dialogue will help to lay the groundwork for an EU-China summit that is expected to take place later this month.