Chinese President Hu Jintao met on Thursday afternoon with European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso who is in Beijing to attend the seventh Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) to be held on Oct. 24 to 25. (Xinhua Photo)

BEIJING, Oct. 23 (Xinhua) -- Strengthening relations between China and the European Union (EU) will contribute to the world peace, stability and prosperity amid complicated international situations, Chinese President Hu Jintao said here on Thursday.

The significance of Sino-EU relations has surpassed the bilateral level and is of more and more international significance, Hu said during his meeting with European Commission President Jose Manuel Durao Barroso, who is here to attend the seventh Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) to be held on Friday and Saturday.

Hu confirmed that China is willing to work with EU to push forward their comprehensive strategic partnership.

The president proposed to consolidate Sino-EU political base under the principle of strengthening strategic mutual trust, to promote concrete cooperation in various sectors in a reciprocal and win-win principle, and to properly tackle concerns and divergent opinions based on mutual respect and equal consultation.

Hu pledged that China is willing to reinforce communication and coordination with EU, jointly deal with the current financial crisis and maintain the stability of the global financial market.

Barroso said during the meeting that the current financial, grain and energy crises, as well as climate change, poverty and terrorist threat require worldwide actions.

He said EU appreciates China's responsible attitude in responding to the financial crisis and hopes to deepen cooperation with China. He said EU-Chinese relations are strategic, strong and mature.