Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday called on the European Union (EU) to establish an objective and rational perception of China, and pursue a more positive and pragmatic policy toward China.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks while co-chairing the 13th round of China-EU High-level Strategic Dialogue with High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of the EU Kaja Kallas, in Brussels.

The development of China-EU relations shows that the relationship between the two sides is positioned as partners rather than opponents, with cooperation as the main theme and ballast, Wang pointed out, adding that the two sides should properly handle differences through communication within this framework.

Facing rising uncertainty and instability in the international situation, the two sides, as major economies, should strengthen exchanges, deepen understanding, enhance mutual trust, promote cooperation, jointly safeguard the post-war international order, and provide the world with scarce certainty, he said.

Wang said China and the EU, despite different histories, cultures and values, should not regard each other as opponents and seek confrontation because of differences and disagreements.

Stressing that the challenges the EU currently faces do not come from China in the past, present or future, the Chinese foreign minister urged both sides to uphold mutual respect and mutual learning, and make new contributions to human civilization.

China has always supported European integration and the EU's efforts to enhance its strategic autonomy and play a constructive role in international affairs, he said, expressing hope that the EU side will respect China's core interests through practical actions.

For her part, Kallas said the EU adheres to the one-China policy, and is ready to enhance mutual understanding and develop a more constructive EU-China relationship through candid communication.

She also called for carrying out more balanced and fair economic and trade cooperation.

The two sides also exchanged views on issues such as the Ukraine crisis, the Israel-Palestine conflict and the Iranian nuclear issue.