Brussels, 05/09/2001 (Agence Europe) - Chinese and European leaders were to adopt a joint declaration for the first time, on Wednesday in Brussels, after their fourth meeting at the Summit held the same day. With the text, that may still be slightly amended at the time of going to press, Beijing and Brussels pledge to strengthen their political dialogue and to enlarge dialogue with a view to intensifying consultation and discussion at every level, including regional security and international issues (including non-proliferation, arms control and disarmament). The tricky question of human rights is mentioned, among others (also Taiwan). The Chinese authorities thus confirm their commitment to pursue the dialogue begun with the Union in 1998 "with a view to reaching significant and positive results" "on a basis of mutual respect and equality", while seeking to promote conformity with international standards and in cooperation with the United Nations.
A very weighty Chinese delegation (135 people) took part in the Summit, alongside the Chinese Prime Minister Zhu Rongij, the President of the Council of the EU, Guy Verhofstadt, the President of the European Commission, Romano Prodi, the High Representative for CFSP, Javier Solana, and the European Commissioner for External Relations Chris Patten. Against the background of the Summit, the European Trade Commissioner, Pascal Lamy, had a meeting with the Chinese External Trade Minister (see EUROPE of 3/4 September, p.7).