On April 25, 2008, Chinese President Hu Jintao met with EU Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso at the Great Hall of the People.

Hu said recent years have witnessed frequent high-level exchanges, improved dialogue and consultation mechanisms and expanding exchanges and cooperation in all areas between China and the EU, adding that an all-round, multi-level framework covering a wide range of areas has formed.

Hu said it was not only in line with both sides' fundamental interests, but also conducive to the peace, stability and development of the world to further cement and step up China-EU ties under current complex and changeable international circumstances. "I hope the two sides would keep high-level visits, enhance strategic dialogue and consultation, and increase understanding and recognition for the policy trends of each other," Hu told Barroso. Hu called to promote exchange and cooperation in various sectors, deepen coordination on key multilateral affairs and global issues, and properly handle and solve major concerns or disputes between the two so as to ensure the long-term healthy and stable development of the China-EU all-round strategic partnership.

Barroso said to maintain robust EU-China ties was vital to both sides and the international community. It needed efforts from both China and the EU to safeguard international energy, finance, food safety and stability and solve global issues of climate change, sustainable development and terrorism, said Barroso. He said the EU was committed to developing a strategic partnership with China and was willing to solve concerns and disputes through dialogue on the basis of mutual respect and constructive spirit.

Barroso expressed appreciation for China's consistent support for the EU integration, and wished the Beijing Olympics a success.

Vice Premier Wang Qishan attended the meeting.