Beijing not source of Europe's challenges — Chinese foreign minister

BEIJING, April 2. /TASS/. Europe is facing challenges, but they do not come from Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during a phone call with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, according to a statement on the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s website. "China's development offers opportunities for Europe, and the challenges Europe faces do not stem from China. Protectionism cannot boost competitiveness, and refusing to cooperate with Beijing means giving up potential benefits," the diplomat said. Wang Yi expressed hope that the European side would develop a comprehensive and objective view of China and support the right direction for the development of relations between the EU and Beijing. The parties also exchanged views on the Middle East situation. The foreign minister outlined Beijing’s position and stressed that China is ready to maintain communication and cooperation with the EU, helping to bring about a swift end to the conflict and restore peace in the region.