Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and German Chancellor Angela Merkel meet the press in Berlin June 1st, 2017.  [Photo/Provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday confirmed that she had discussed the protocol surrounding Beijing's accession to the World Trade Organization with visiting Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.

She said that both Germany and China endorsed WTO rules and principles, and she believed the EU should abide by WTO regulations and fulfill its legal obligations by working out solutions that apply equally to all countries without prejudice against China, adding that Germany wishes to see progress in the EU-China trade negotiations.

Merkel made the remarks as she met the press with Premier Li in Berlin on Thursday, the second day of the Chinese Premier's third official visit to Germany since taking office.

Premier Li said China welcomes the EU's implementation of the obligations under the protocol on China's accession to the WTO.

Calling Germany an important partner in the EU, Li stressed that both China and Germany should firmly comply with rules and consensus reached across countries, not least the WTO rules, to better support free trade and facilitate investment.