These major changes have begun to shape the "new concept" of China-EU strategic partnership, which requires new narratives to define the direction of their relationship. With both sides preparing to mark the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties later this year, the EU should play a more pro-active role to reflect the willingness of its member states to take their ties with China to new levels. But instead of doing so, Brussels has said it will not join the AIIB since it is not a member of either the World Bank or the Asia Development Bank.

The reasons for establishing the AIIB differ from that behind the setting up of the World Bank or the ADB. The rapid changes within the EU and the rest of world require Brussels to alter its outlook. It's time Brussels thought beyond the policies of the US and looked at the real interests of its member states. The EU's attitude toward the AIIB is a reminder that Brussels should look at the real picture of the changing world while devising its policies toward Beijing.

The EU is still contemplating how to channel enough investment to create jobs and expedite growth, both important factors for its future. Xi has put growth and reform as top priorities for Beijing-Brussels relations, while China is busy designing its blueprint for the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20). And given Xi's speech last year, both sides can find many converging points in each other's policy targets.

The two sides, therefore, should take stock of the changes they have undergone over the past year along with their 40-year relations before holding a summit in June, because that will help them better tackle bilateral problems and strengthen future cooperation.

The author is China Daily chief correspondent in Brussels.

fujing@chinadaily.com.cn