China urges EU to uphold free trade amid protectionism concerns

China called on Friday on the European Union to take a comprehensive and objective view of China-EU economic and trade relations, warning that protectionist measures could harm European consumers and weaken EU industrial competitiveness.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning made the remarks at a routine news briefing ahead of an EU meeting expected to introduce measures aimed at erecting barriers by the European industry against Chinese companies.

Mao stressed that China-EU economic and trade relations are fundamentally mutually beneficial.

"China does not deliberately seek a trade surplus with Europe. Protectionism will only hurt European consumers and undermine the competitiveness of European industries," she said.

Mao added that China is closely monitoring relevant developments and will take necessary measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.