Vice Premier Wang: China expects progress on EU trade issues

China expects the European Union to make "substantive" progress on a number of trade issues, including an easing of restrictions on hi-tech exports to Europe, state media reported, citing Vice Premier Wang Qishan. Speaking at the Third China-EU High-level Economic and Trade Dialogue in Beijing, Wang said China hopes the EU can make further commitments on several issues including the lifting of a ban on hi-tech goods, recognizing China’s market economy status, protecting the rights and interests of Chinese investment in Europe and "appropriately addressing Chinese investors’ application for EU visas." Wang also said both parties need to resist trade protectionism. China is the EU’s largest trading partner.