China's Foreign Minister urges EU to avoid trade confrontation

EU: The European Union is a major economic bloc focused on balanced trade and protecting its industries from external imbalances. It has engaged China through a new Trade and Investment Consultations mechanism launched in mid-2026, aiming for concrete outcomes by October on areas including export controls and market access. Recent statements from EU trade officials underscore the need for rebalancing to support European jobs and competitiveness. China: China is a leading global economy and comprehensive strategic partner to the European Union. Its Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently emphasized in diplomatic calls that the two sides should not engage in trade wars and should resolve concerns through dialogue and consultation. This stance aligns with Beijing's push to stabilize relations amid an approaching October deadline for tangible progress on trade issues. Wang Yi: Wang Yi serves as China's Foreign Minister and a member of the Communist Party of China Central Committee Political Bureau. He recently stated during a call with Germany's foreign minister that China and the EU are comprehensive strategic partners that should not fight trade wars but instead pursue mutual solutions via dialogue. His comments directly address rising tensions as the October deadline for trade progress nears. October Target: Both sides agreed to pursue tangible results by October 2026, including through high-level meetings in Beijing, to address ongoing trade imbalances without escalating to confrontation. Trade Dialogue Mechanism: The EU and China launched the Trade and Investment Consultations forum in June 2026 with four workstreams on balancing trade, export controls, intellectual property, and WTO reform. Recent Diplomatic Engagement: In September 2026, Wang Yi highlighted the importance of pragmatic cooperation and free trade principles in discussions with EU member state representatives.