China hopes its policy paper to the European Union will enhance comprehensive bilateral ties, a Foreign Ministry official said in Beijing Monday.

The Chinese government issued China's EU Policy Paper Monday, spelling out objectives of China's EU policy and outlining plans on cooperation in the next five years. The document was the first of its kind after the two sides established diplomatic ties nearly 30 years ago.

This was a response to the five documents issued by the EU in the past eight years, the official said, noting that in recent years, bilateral relations had developed soundly and rapidly with frequent high-level visits and a dialogue of friendly cooperation.

China supported the integration of the EU and welcomed its active role in European and international affairs, the official said. And China would deepen relations with EU members, including new members, to maintain the stability and continuity of bilateral relations.

The EU's ban on arms sales to China was an outcome of the Cold War and inappropriate to the current sound relations. China hoped the EU would lift the ban soon, the official said.

China had on many occasions voiced its appeal for full market economy status and officially submitted an application to the EU in May this year. China hoped the EU would face the reality of China's market economy and treat China's achievements fairly, said the official.

The official added that both China and the EU were victims of and strongly opposed all forms of terrorism. China advocated more cooperation in the international community in this regard and was ready to maintain contact and consultation with the EU on fighting terrorism.
 
(Xinhua News Agency October 14, 2003)