Li urges Netherlands to play constructive role in advancing relations with the bloc

Premier Li Keqiang underlined on Wednesday the need for China and the European Union to uphold dialogue, cooperation, properly handle differences and strive toward the healthy and steady growth of bilateral ties.

In a virtual meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, Li said the Netherlands, a key member of the EU, should play a constructive role in promoting ties between Beijing and Brussels.

The meeting came after Li extended a congratulatory message to the Dutch leader after his reelection earlier this month.

Rutte said that China and the EU must jointly respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the Netherlands.

Hailing the Netherlands as a key partner of China in Europe, Li said China stands ready to scale up bilateral cooperation in sectors including response to climate change, science and technology and modern agriculture.

China welcomes imports of more high-quality agricultural produce from the Dutch side, he added.