Munich, February 16, 2025 – The Europe Today: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Austrian interim Chancellor and Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, reaffirming both countries’ commitment to upholding multilateralism and strengthening international cooperation.
Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, emphasized China’s readiness to collaborate with Austria in maintaining the authority of the United Nations, defending the international rule of law, and rejecting unilateralism and coercion.
Highlighting the current global security challenges, economic risks, and geopolitical uncertainties, Wang noted that the international community seeks stability and peace rather than division and confrontation. He welcomed the Munich Security Conference’s focus on multipolarization, stating that China remains committed to peaceful development and plays a constructive role in global affairs.
Wang commended Austria’s long-standing neutrality and its role as a bridge-builder in international diplomacy. He encouraged Austria to capitalize on new opportunities arising from China’s economic development and deepen bilateral cooperation, particularly in advancing China-EU relations.
As 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the European Union, Wang reiterated China’s commitment to fostering stronger relations with EU nations, including Austria, to ensure continued progress in the next five decades.
For his part, Schallenberg emphasized Austria’s respect for China and the importance of their bilateral and multilateral cooperation. He underscored that decoupling and the disruption of industrial and supply chains are not in the common interest of nations, advocating instead for open cooperation as the foundation for economic growth and prosperity.
Schallenberg also commended China’s adherence to multilateralism and expressed Austria’s willingness to work alongside China to uphold the principles of the UN Charter and preserve the post-World War II international order. He further highlighted China’s significant influence in global affairs and called for the application of Eastern wisdom in fostering international peace and stability.
The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East and other pressing global issues.
