China said on Tuesday that China-European Union cooperation was mutually beneficial, urged deeper dialogue to resolve trade disputes and pledged constructive engagement to maintain stable global industrial and supply chains.

Photo taken on April 4, 2018 shows the entrance to the Chinese Foreign Ministry in Beijing, capital of China. (Photo: Xinhua)

"China and the European Union are partners rather than rivals," Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the remarks at a routine press briefing in Beijing.

"The root cause of problems facing the EU does not lie with China," Guo said. "The key to sound bilateral economic and trade ties lies in deepening China-EU cooperation to achieve common development.

"China is ready to step up communication and consultation with the EU, properly handle trade divergences in a constructive manner based on the principles of equality, respect and mutual benefit, and jointly safeguard the stability of global industrial and supply chains."

（Compiled by Wang Ruofan)