VIENTIANE -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang said China is ready to work with the EU to further consolidate the momentum of stable and positive relations between both sides, enhance strategic mutual trust and strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation.

Li made the remarks on Friday during his meeting with European Council President Charles Michel on the sidelines of the leaders' meetings on East Asia cooperation held in Vientiane.

Calling next year's 50th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic ties an important node of connecting the past with the future, Li said China also stands ready to make greater contributions to improving the well-being of people of the two sides and advancing the cause of global peace and development with the EU.