Chinese Premier: We want bigger ties with the EU

China “firmly supports” European integration and wants to grow its economic ties with the region, including the UK, according to Premier Li Keqiang.

Writing in the Telegraph, Mr Li, who succeeded Wen Jiabao this year as the main political figure in charge of China’s economy and domestic governance, says Beijing is targeting $1 trillion (£620bn) of trade with the European Union by 2020.

 “This is no 'low-hanging fruit’ and we need to jump to reach it but I am confident we can attain that goal,” he writes, following an agreement in Beijing to boost trade between the world’s second-largest economy and the EU.

 “The agenda will definitely provide more opportunities for economic and trade collaboration between China and the EU.

On the subject of EU unity, Mr Li adds that “China will, as always, firmly support Europe’s integration process.

A united, stable and prosperous Europe is in the interest of the world and of China.

 Read more: Chinese Premier: We want bigger ties with Europe - Telegraph