2015-06-16

On June 16, 2015, Mr. ZHANG Yi met with Mr. Gianni Pittella, Chair of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S & D) of European Parliament, who was visiting China and reported the recent work of the Commission to Mr. Pittella.

European Parliament (EP)began as the Common Assembly of the European Coal and Steel Community, which was founded in 1952. It was a consultative assembly of 78 appointed parliamentarians drawn from 6 national parliaments of member states. In 1962, it became European Parliament and now is one of the three major institutions together with the Council of European Union and the European Commission. EP exercises the legislative function of the EU. S & D is currently the second-largest group in EP and Mr. Martin Schulz, the former Chair of S & D has become the President of the European Parliament since 2012. Mr. Gianni Pittella, Chair of S & D is the famous statesman of Italy and enjoys the prestigious reputation in the political circle of Italy and the EU because of his rich experiences in politics.

Mr. ZHANG Yi reported to Mr. Pittellathe recent work of the Commission since his assumption of the post of Executive Chairman. He pointed out that the mission of the Commission was dedicated to the work of facilitating the economic cooperation and cultural exchange between Europe and China and he expected to receive the consistent guidance and support from high-level officials of the EU. Mr. Pittella appreciated the recent work of the Commission and indicated his willingness to witness that the Commission could make the further use of the advantages of being a NGO and enhance the mutual understanding and friendship between European and Chinese people through the concrete project cooperation.

The meeting concluded amid the friendly and pleasant atmosphere.