15th EU-China Round Table

The 15th EU-China Civil Society Round Table will take place in Beijing from 28 to 30 June 2017. To mark this anniversary edition of the Round Table – it has been 10 years since it was first set up – an overarching theme, “Partnership for Growth, Civilization of mutual benefit”, was chosen. Thematic session will examine three key aspects of this partnership:

  1. Innovation as a driver for economic development and economic vitality;
  2. Cooperation and win-win outcomes: trade and investment liberalisation and facilitation, and the Belt & Road Initiative;
  3. Upholding equality and inclusiveness and enhancing people's well-being, including social and labour rights.

The aim of the discussions will be to find common ground, and exchange ideas, experiences and best practices.
The EU-China Civil Society Round Table was established in 2007 following a decision taken by the 9th EU-China Summit in Helsinki. The delegations from the EESC and its Chinese counterpart, the China Economic and Social Council, meet regularly to discuss topics relating to economic and social issues relevant to both parties. By elaborating reports, discussing them and exchanging ideas, the representatives of the European Economic and Social Committee and the China Economic and Social Council contribute to the development of the overall EU-China relationship, from a civil society perspective.