"As the world's largest donor in the field of technical assistance support to developing countries, the EU is a strong supporter of the 'Aid for Trade' strategy and the Doha agenda for development," said Johan Cauwenbergh, head of EU Operations, Minister Counsellor.

Cauwenbergh added: "This strategy recognizes the role of trade in generating growth, employment and income, reducing poverty and contributing to the Millennium Development Goals. The EUCTP is just one of the 13 currently on-going EU-China cooperation projects, financed through Europe Aid, with an overall budget of around 206 million."

Expert Li Zhongzhou added that there were benefits too for Europe in working closely with China on its ambitious economic and trade reform.