For China-Europe relations to stay steady and sound, "it is crucial for Europe to have a correct perception of China", Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at a news conference on the sidelines of the annual two sessions on Sunday.

The minister noted that, since last year, relations between China and European countries have improved.

Over 2 million European tourists have visited China under the visa-free policy, while several European leaders have also made visits to China, he said.

ALSO READ: Wang urges Germany to become driving force for China-Europe ties

"China-Europe relations draw stability from shared interests and certainty from mutually beneficial partnerships," he said.

Interdependence is not a risk, intertwined interests are not threats, and openness and cooperation will not harm economic security, he said, adding that "building walls and barriers will only lead to self-isolation".

"We are glad to see European friends stepping out of the 'small attic' of protectionism and walking into the 'fitness club' of the Chinese market and strength build their competitiveness," Wang said.

READ MORE: China urges joint efforts with EU to address global challenges

He noted that an increasing number of insightful individuals in Europe perceive China as a global partner, rather than a competitor.

Younger generations in particular view China with greater objectivity and positivity, he said.

"The essence of China-EU economic and trade relations lies in complementarity of their strengths," Wang said. "We can fully achieve a dynamic equilibrium in the course of development."

zhangyunbi@chinadaily.com.cn