Summary: May 5, 2004: EU Press Release. Javier SOLANA, EU High Representative for the CFSP, met today with WEN Jiabao, Prime Minister of China (Brussels)
Javier SOLANA, European Union High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy, met today with WEN Jiabao, Prime Minister of the People's Republic of China, on the occasion of his first official visit to Europe.
The High Representative reaffirmed the European Union's wish "to continue deepening relations with China at all levels, in particular politically and economically" in the context of their strategic partnership.
Javier Solana received on behalf of the European Union, the Prime Minister's sincere congratulations for its enlargement to 25 member states on 1 May. Wen Jiabao said "an enlarged Europe is in a better position to play a role in international affairs".
Mr Solana praised the efforts made by China in relation to the nuclear problem in North Korea, particularly in the context of the so-called "six-party talks". The two leaders acknowledged the willingness of the parties to continue the dialogue as an important sign of positive engagement.
Javier Solana reported briefly on the results of the meeting of the Quartet for peace in the Middle East that took place on 4 May in New York. He stated that "the meeting contributed to bring back the centre of gravity of the peace process to the Quartet and to put the Road Map back in the forefront".
Moreover, the two leaders briefly addressed the current security situation in Iraq, agreeing that it is important that the transfer of authority to the Iraqi people takes place as soon as possible.
The meeting was concluded with both leaders agreeing on the importance of effective multilateralism and of the United Nations' role in international affairs.
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