(VOVworld) – The European Union and China have agreed to increase cooperation to safeguard world peace and stability.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) meets with Jose Manuel Barroso, president of the European Commission, in Brussels, Belgium, March 31, 2014. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

Both underlined the need to consolidate bilateral cooperation in external relations and security and the importance of settling disputes peacefully.

Speaking at a press briefing in Brussels on Monday, Chinese President Xi Jinping said bilateral cooperation will not be held back by any difficulties or disputes. He expressed his hope that his visit to Brussels will benefit both sides, bringing the two partners closer to each other in line with the Strategic Agenda 2020 for China-EU Cooperation.

Following a talk with President Xi, European Parliament Speaker Martin Schulz said the Chinese leader’s visit illustrates Beijing's support for frank dialogues.

It is the first trip by a Chinese President to Belgium in the past 27 years.