The diplomatic relationship between the European Union and the People's Republic of China dates back to 6 May 1975, when Sir Christopher Soames, then Vice-President of the European Economic Commission with Special Responsibility for External Relations, became the first official from the European Union institutions to visit China. During this visit, the EEC Vice-President and Premier Zhou Enlai agreed to establish diplomatic relations. Shortly thereafter, the Chinese side appointed an ambassador to the European Community. On 15 September 1975, Ambassador Li Lien-Pi presented his credentials to the President of the Council of Ministers and the President of the Commission of the European Communities. Pierre Duchâteau served as the first EU Ambassador to China from 1988 to 1994.
In 1978, the EU and China signed their first trade agreement. China adopted a favourable attitude toward the political union of European nations and viewed the European integration as an essential factor in promoting world peace.
Today we reflect on our shared history over the past 50 years. This milestone is also a good opportunity to take stock of our relations today. Moreover, it is an occasion to outline the future that we envisage and aspire to build together.
Over the past five decades, relations between the EU and China have been shaped by domestic and international developments, as well as by the approaches both sides have taken toward one other. While the EU has expanded and transformed its project, China has gained global political and economic prominence.
This conference brings together distinguished speakers to examine the ways in which the EU and China have engaged in this unique and unprecedented relationship over the past 50 years. It provides a platform for reflecting also on how the two sides can rebalance the relationship, uphold their commitments and honour their new global responsibilities, to ensure sustainable prosperity and global stability.