Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng met with Charles Michel, former president of the European Council, former prime minister of Belgium, and distinguished professor at the China Europe International Business School on May 9.

Gong said that Shanghai has established friendship city relationships with 38 European cities, serving as an important bridge for friendly exchanges between China and Europe.

Since its founding in Shanghai 31 years ago, CEIBS has cultivated a large number of outstanding business management professionals, promoting China-Europe economic, trade, and cultural exchanges, Gong added.

He expressed Shanghai's eagerness to deepen cooperation with the European Union in areas such as trade, industrial investment, education, and cultural exchanges.

Michel expressed his hope to foster closer cooperation between the EU and Shanghai, noting the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the EU and China.