” “"China’s expansion is not to be seen as a bugbear but as a positive result of globalisation": Peter Mandelson, trade commissioner, provides his personal interpretation of the relationship between Europe and the great Asian country. As he presented a report in Strasbourg today about the subject, Mandelson added: "Thanks to China, we will have cheaper goods in our shops", "more competitive European societies and wider markets for European exporters". But afterwards the commissioner warned: "China must abide by the obligations it has taken on within the World Trade Organisation and engage in fair trade". The document outlines an "ambitious plan for EU-China relations": the new strategy "is a response to the reassertion of China as a world-class economic and political power". According to the commissioner for external relations Benita Ferrero-Waldner, "the success of this partnership is a considerable challenge for the EU. In order to cope with the main problems of Europe, such as climate change, economic growth, migration and security, we have to make the most of the potential offered by a dynamic relationship with China". Finally, Ferrero-Waldner explains that "a commitment made of dialogue and mutuality" does not rule out human rights that "remain a priority for the".” “
