On the afternoon of 24 June 2015, Premier Li Keqiang met with King Philippe of Belgium, who is in China on a state visit, at the Great Hall of the People.

Premier Li said China-Belgium relations enjoy sound momentum of growth. President Xi Jinping and King Philippe of Belgium had a fruitful meeting yesterday. China will work with Belgium to increase political mutual trust and deepen cooperation in key areas, including trade and investment. China’s advantage in industrial capacity and its competitiveness in equipment manufacturing could be combined with Belgium’s strength in technology to open third party markets and make sure that such cooperation produces win-win results.

Premier Li Keqiang meets King Philippe of Belgium at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, June 24, 2015.[Photo/China News Service]

Premier Li mentioned that the 17th China-EU Summit is soon to be held. He said that China attaches great importance to relations with the EU. China has long supported European integration, and is happy to see a prosperous Europe, a united European Union and a strong euro. Now the Greek debt issue faces a critical moment. What China is glad to see is that Greece will remain in the Eurozone. China appreciates efforts made by parties concerned and hopes that relevant talks could produce successful results. China stands ready to work with the EU to inject constant new impetus to China-EU relations.

King Philippe said that Belgium values friendly relations with China and will increase cooperation with China in trade, investment, technologies and regarding small and medium-sized enterprises and people-to-people and cultural exchanges. Belgium will engage actively with China concerning major initiatives such as the Silk Road Economic Belt, the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road and international industrial cooperation. Belgium will work even more closely with China in cooperation with third parties. Belgium appreciates China’s commitment to supporting European integration and the Eurozone. Belgium is committed to promoting progress in overall EU-China relations.