China, EU hold 33rd round of human rights dialogue

BRUSSELS - China and EU here on Monday held the 33rd round of dialogue on human rights, exchanging views on issues including international cooperation on human rights and women's rights.

The dialogue was co-chaired by Gerhard Sabathil, Director for East Asia and the Pacific in the European External Action Service,

and Li Junhua, director-general of the Department of International Affairs of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Noting the two sides conducted "open and deep exchanges," Li said at a press briefing after the dialogue that China briefed EU on its human rights progress, especially the plans to comprehensively advance rule of law, which was mapped out at the recently concluded fourth plenary session of the 18th Communist Party of China Central Committee.

Li also called on the European side to objectively view China's achievements in human rights, based on the principle of equality and respect.

"We welcome friendly and positive feedback from our international friends, but China has its own specific system to deal with human rights," Li said, noting China is confident about its own model.

He added the human rights are a long-term project that requires long-term attention.

Sabathil said the two sides have got more understanding about issues of each other's concern, and touched on future cooperation.

The dialogue was launched in 1995.