Commentary: Chinese premier's strong message to Europe (2)

This sends an encouraging signal to the fight protectionism and sets a good example for cooperation between China and Europe at large.

China attaches great importance to its relations with Europe, which is fully demonstrated by the fact that two European countries, namely Switzerland and Germany, were among the destinations of Li's first overseas tour after he took office in March.

As two highly complementary economies, China and Europe can make full use of their respective advantages and make a bigger cake to share between them.

By resisting the temptation of protectionism, the EU can work hand in hand with China to tap the huge potential for their further cooperation.

For that to happen, Brussels needs to heed the anti-protectionism call from China and take it seriously.