The First China- EU High Level Economic and Trade Dialogue was held in the Great Hall of the People on April 25th, 2008, co-hosted by Mr. Wang Qishan, Premier of China and Mr. Peter Mandelson, Trade Commissioner of the European Commission.

Attendees of relevant government departments in fields of Trade, Economy, S&T, Energy, Environment, Employment, Customs, Quality Inspection and Foreign Affairs conducted open and candid discussion around 5 heated issues, namely Trade and Investment Cooperation, Harmonious and Sustainable Development, Technology Innovation, Consumers Protection & Products Safety as well as International Development. Moreover, in-depth communication was organized concerning Energy, IPR protection, Technical Cooperation and Trade Facilitation. Both sides made great efforts to explore ways to further cooperation by introducing policy and experiences and raising mutual concerns. EU appreciates China’s position in opening market, energy conservation and pollution reduction, IPR protection, products and food safety. China’s assistance to Africa has also won their praise. The two sides would, on the basis of openness and equality, oppose any forms of trade protectionism; strengthen consultation and dialogue so as to embark the China-EU economic and trade cooperation on a healthy, stable and mutual beneficial path.

In the conference an agreement was reached that the dialogue will be held annually, alternately in China and Europe.

The conference was organized and facilitated by China International Centre for Economic and Technical Exchanges and Trade Development Bureau, Ministry of Commerce.