Paris: French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Thursday stressed the need for China to respect international trade rules and take into account the EU's security interests. Europe must address "two fundamental and essential issues" in its relations with Beijing, Barrot said while addressing the Medef, France's employers' association, in Paris.

According to Anadolu Agency, Barrot emphasized the importance of trade fairness, urging China to adhere to international trade rules, particularly those set by the World Trade Organization. He criticized Beijing for not aligning with certain global standards, highlighting that such conduct results in 'untenable' situations for European producers.

Barrot expressed concerns over unfair competition caused by overcapacity and stressed the importance of adhering to established trade norms. He stated, "We cannot accept that China disregards certain rules, leading to unfair competition caused by overcapacity."

Security concerns were also a focal point of Barrot's address, as he highlighted threats both within the EU and beyond. He mentioned that European institutions are "regularly targeted by cyberattacks and destabilization efforts originating from or driven by actors of Chinese origin."

Further, Barrot urged China to consider Europe's security interests, particularly in relation to the situation in Ukraine. He warned, "China must understand that what is happening in Ukraine affects the security of the European continent," underscoring that any form of support for Russia poses a 'very serious threat' to the EU.

Barrot concluded by stating that for China to maintain good relations with the European Union, it must acknowledge the consequences of its stance and actions concerning these critical issues.