Beijing: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged Sweden on Thursday to play a 'constructive role' in promoting the healthy development of China-EU relations, according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry. The top diplomat made the remarks during a meeting with Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard in Beijing.

According to Anadolu Agency, Wang emphasized Sweden's importance as an EU member and its historical significance as the first Western country to establish ties with China. With the 75th anniversary of these ties approaching in 2025, Wang expressed China's readiness to implement a visa-free travel policy for Swedish nationals to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

Wang encouraged both countries to 'adhere to the principle of being partners rather than adversaries,' highlighting that cooperation should take precedence over differences. He stated that Beijing is prepared to collaborate with Sweden in expanding practical cooperation in various fields, including trade and investment, scientific and technological innovation, life and health, the digital economy, and green development.

The Chinese foreign minister also expressed China's willingness to deepen coordination with Sweden on multilateral issues such as climate change, aiming to 'push bilateral relations back on the right track' and achieve 'continued healthy and stable development.'

The meeting also covered discussions on international and regional issues, including the Ukrainian crisis. Stenergard expressed her appreciation for the dialogue with Wang on social media platform X, mentioning discussions on 'matters of universal concern,' such as climate change and security, along with important bilateral issues. She also welcomed China's announcement of a forthcoming visa exemption for Swedes traveling to China.