THE HAGUE, Dec. 8 (Xinhuanet) -- Leaders of China and the European Union (EU) said here Wednesday that China-EU human rights dialogue has promoted mutual understanding.

   In a joint statement issued after the seventh annual summit meeting, both sides agreed to continue this dialogue while making efforts to achieve more meaningful and positive results on the ground and in related bilateral cooperation program.

   They underlined their respect for international human right standards provided for in relevant international human rights instruments.

   China is committed to the ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights as soon as possible.

   "They also noted the importance of the International Criminal Court in the global fight against genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity," the statement said.

   They also underlined the importance of concrete steps in the field of human rights and reaffirmed their commitment to further enhance cooperation and exchanges in this field on the basis of equality and mutual respect.

   The China-EU human rights dialogue was launched in 1990s.

   During this summit meeting, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and EU leaders also witnessed the signing of a series of cooperation agreements. Enditem