On October 22, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jia Kun hosted a regular press conference. A reporter from Agence France-Presse inquired about the emergency talks agreed upon by Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and European Commission Trade and Economic Security Commissioner Šefčovič regarding China's export controls on rare earths, which are set to take place in Brussels. Can the Foreign Ministry confirm this meeting and provide more information?
"Relevant departments in China have already issued news releases, which you can refer to," Guo emphasized. He reiterated that the essence of China-Europe economic and trade relations is based on complementary advantages and mutual benefits. He expressed hope that the European side will honor its commitment to support free trade and oppose trade protectionism, providing a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory operating environment for companies from all countries. Guo called for concrete actions to uphold market economy principles and WTO regulations, emphasizing the need to resolve trade differences through dialogue and consultation.