BEIJING – Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on the European Union to strengthen cooperation with Beijing, emphasizing that China approaches its relationship with the bloc with sincerity and goodwill. During a meeting in Beijing with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Xi stated that China views the European Union as a partner. He urged both sides to prioritize common interests over their differences, suggesting that cooperation should take precedence over competition. According to reports, Xi noted that any existing disagreements should be addressed through equal dialogue and mutual understanding. Addressing the German president, Xi expressed his expectation that Germany will maintain a rational and pragmatic stance toward China, playing a constructive role in the broader development of relations between Beijing and the European Union. The Chinese leader’s remarks come at a time when relations between Beijing and Brussels are strained by ongoing trade disputes and diverging views on economic and industrial policies.