BEIJING, May 12 -- China is urging EU members to make the European textile industry more competitive rather than impose protective measures against Chinese products.

    Ma Keqing made the remarks when commenting on the recent trade dispute over Chinese textile exports to Europe.

¡¡ "The EU's textiles do not have strong competition. The EU should strengthen its industry structure, not introduce economic protectionism."

    She also said China is slowing down its surging textile exports.

    Meanwhile, three senior European Union diplomats will hold talks with Chinese officials durxc ing a visit to China which begins on Wednesday.

    Ma Keqing says China is willing to settle the textile trade issue with the EU through talks.

    But she also stressed that under the WTO Agreement, trade in textiles and clothing should be fully integrated into normal GATT rules as any other commodity, which means the prevailing quota restraints should be wholly eliminated.

    
"Textile integration is the right China should enjoy according to WTO rules. I think the EU understands this and we are willing to have equal and friendly talks and consultation with the EU to properly settle this issue."

    The "troika" of EU diplomats include the Foreign Minister of Luxembourg that is holding the rotating presidentcy of the EU, the EU's External Relations Commissioner and a representative for the British Foreign Secretary.

    They are scheduled to meet Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan and the Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing.

    (Source: CRIENGLISH.com)