In 1998, the EU and its member states adopted a series of positive measures to promote Sino-European relations. Abandoning its old policies of many years, the EU decided not to put forward motions against China at the United Nations conference on human rights.
The EU Commission issued a new China policy guideline, advocating for further upgrading the level of Sino-European ties and raising a series of proposals on strengthening bilateral relations.
While attending the Asia-Europe Meeting, Premier Zhu Rongji met with British Prime Minister Tony Blair and President of the EU Commission Jacques Santer, the first meeting between leaders of China and the EU. Both sides issued a joint declaration, stressing that they are willing to build a healthy and stable constructive partnership oriented towards the 21st century, and decided to hold an annual meeting of leaders. On this occasion, Zhu paid official visits to Britain and France.
The EU decided to remove China from its list of “non-market economic countries” subject to its anti-dumping rules.
Following France, Britain and Germany expressed their willingness to establish a comprehensive partnership with China. When the world is about to enter the 21st century, Sino-European ties are entering a new period of comprehensive development.
Between September 24-26, French Prime Minister Lionel Jospin paid an official visit to China at the invitation of Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji. China and France issued a joint statement on strengthening financial cooperation and the statement of the Chinese and French governments on the establishment of a commission on cooperation in agriculture and agricultural food between China and France.
Between October 6-10, 1998, British Prime Minister Tony Blair paid an official visit to China. Both sides issued a Sino-British joint statement.
