Reporter:

This year's summit is the 9th since it first opened in 1998. At a press conference following the summit, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao highly commented on the achievements reached.

"China and the EU signed a joint statement during the summit, which I believe is helpful to push forward comprehensive cooperation in various fields like politics, economy, science and technology, culture, education, and security. We also agreed to strengthen political strategic dialogue, enhance substantial cooperation in trade, improve cultural exchange, and have more coordination in international affairs."

It is reported that a wide range of international issues such as the Iranian nuclear issue and the situation in Darfur were also discussed at the summit.

Meanwhile, Premier Wen Jiabao called on the European side to reach an independent and correct political resolution on the lifting of arms embargo against China, and grant China full market-economy status.

"Such a move would show mutual respect between the two sides. It complies with Europe's own interests and could wipe out barriers to the growth of Sino-European ties. We believe that the EU leaders will handle these differences properly with strategic insight and long-term vision."

The President of the European Commission, Jose Manuel Barroso, announced that the EU has remained China's biggest trading partner for the past two years. He expressed appreciation for the reforms made by the Chinese government and for its willingness to carry forward the new framework agreement. Concerning the recognition of China's full market economy status, he said the EU's continuous dialogue with China is constructive.

"There are four technical criteria on our side that we believe are important for a decision in this matter: state influence, accounting, bankrupt law and reforms of financial sector. Those technical concerns are relevant to correctly determine the prices and costs in the course of anti-dumping investigation. I can tell you that once the remaining criteria are fulfilled, the European Commission will not wait any longer to grant market economy status to China."

It was also agreed that both sides will work to improve market entry criteria and produce more investment opportunities to further enhance mutual benefits in bilateral trade.

Yao Yongmei, CRI News.