Beijng: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the need for more institutional dialogues between China and the European Union (EU) to enhance their comprehensive strategic partnership.

During a phone conversation with High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, Wang proposed conducting these dialogues to inject new momentum into their relationship.

Borrell extended his condolences for the recent floods in China and reaffirmed the EU's commitment to fostering good relations with China. He highlighted that the EU's Global Gateway strategy and the Belt and Road Initiative are complementary, aiming to promote global development.

Borrell expressed his eagerness to visit China as soon as possible and engage in a strategic dialogue to prepare for this year's EU-China leaders' meeting. He stressed the importance of further developing EU-China relations.

Wang acknowledged the positive momentum in high-level exchanges between China and the EU and emphasized the significance of their partnership. He stated that China eagerly anticipates the upcoming China-EU leaders' meeting, expecting it to play a leading role in bilateral cooperation.

To compensate for the lack of exchanges during the COVID-19 pandemic, Wang urged for more institutional dialogues between the two sides. He also welcomed Borrell's planned visit to China in the fall, expressing the need for extensive and in-depth exchanges to pave the way for the leaders' meeting.

Besides discussing their bilateral ties, the two leaders also exchanged views on international and regional issues, including Ukraine and Niger, among others.