China reiterates support for European integration

BERLIN - Visiting Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Wednesday reiterated China's support for the European integration process.

As a comprehensive strategic partner of the European Union (EU), China is ready to see a solidary, prosperous and stable Europe as it will be conducive to the world multipolarization and economic globalization, Li told German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin.

Li is paying an official visit to Germany for an annual meeting between the two heads of government, a mechanism launched in 2004.

Berlin is the first leg of Li's three-day Europe tour that will also take him to Belgium.

In Brussels, the Chinese premier will co-chair the 19th China-EU leaders' meeting with European Council President Donald Tusk and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, and pay an official visit to Belgium.

Merkel expressed appreciation for China's support for the European integration, and wished for a fruitful meeting between Li and the EU leaders.

This is Li's ninth trip to Europe and third visit to Germany as premier.