China a staunch supporter of European integration: premier

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said Saturday that China, a staunch supporter of the European integration, is willing to see a united, prosperous and strong European Union (EU).

Li made the remarks when he met with European Parliament (EP) President Martin Schulz in northern German port city of Hamburg.

A united EU benefits the world's peace, security, cooperation and development, the premier noted.

The China-Europe relations are based on an important fact that the East and West civilizations have learned from each other on the basis of mutual respect and equality, said Li.

China, attaching great importance to developing relations with EU institutions including the EP, is ready to work with the EU to strengthen mutual trust, deepen cooperation, expand common interests and solve divergences through dialogues and consultations, said the Chinese leader.

Li said he looks forward to holding talks with President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso during the upcoming 10th Asia-Europe Meeting in Milan, Italy, so as to review the past, map out the future and enhance the China-Europe comprehensive strategic partnership.

"I hope the EP could continue to play an active role in this regard," said Li.

For his part, Schulz hailed China's important role in maintaining world peace, stability and development.

The relationship of Europe and China, key partners in dealing with the global challenges, has far overweighed the bilateral scope to influence the world, said Schulz.

He called on both sides to treat and develop their relations from the global perspective and in line with the principle of equality, mutual benefit and respect, and safeguard common interests through frank dialogues and friendly cooperation, in a bid to bridge the differences and rivalry and respond to the common challenges together.

The EP stands ready to strengthen communication with China, and support the signing of bilateral investment agreement at an early date, so as to make positive contributions to the Europe-China relations, said Schulz.

Li is currently in a three-day visit to Germany, the first stop of his three-leg Europe trip, which will also carry him to Russia and Italy.