Better understanding and mutual benefit can help settle disputes and consolidate strategic common ground

The ongoing week-long strategic dialogue between China and the European Union (EU), respectively headed by State Councilor Dai Bingguo and High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton, is a fresh move taken by both sides to push forward bilateral ties.

Ashton's visit, prior to a UN Summit on development in September, the eighth Asia-Europe Meeting and China-Europe Summit in October, a G20 Summit in November and a UN climate change conference at the end of this year, is expected to help coordinate stances and cooperation between China and the European bloc on a wide range of important international issues.