(Photo: Screenshot CGTN)

In the face of the current international situation full of uncertainty and instability, China and the EU bear the responsibility of firmly supporting multilateralism and international rules, said Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers' meeting in Singapore.

Wang pointed out that strengthening strategic communication and cooperation not only serves the interests of both sides, but help maintain global peace and stability.

The minister also confirmed the success of  the China-EU Summit and that the two sides reached a consensus on safeguarding the rules-based multilateral trading system and resisting protectionism and unilateralism.

EU Foreign Policy Chief Federica Mogherini echoed Wang's stance that the EU stands together with China in support of multilateralism and free trade, and will continue to strengthen strategic communication and cooperation with China.

As a long-term friend of China, the EU regards the country as a major and key strategic partner and does not intend to take any policy actions against China, she added.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Iran nuclear issue and agreed that they should continue to maintain and implement the deal, reiterating support to uphold the basic norms of international law.