BEIJING, Feb. 15 (UPI) -- China's offer to help Europe with its debt is "sincere and resolute," but only the eurozone can solve the crisis, Premier Wen Jiabao said.
Speaking at a news conference in Beijing, the Chinese leader said his country expects the eurozone to send clear and positive signals to the world that it can tackle the situation, China Daily reported.
"China's willingness to support the EU in dealing with its debt problems is sincere and resolute," said Wen, who spoke at the briefing with European Council President Herman Van Rompuy and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso.
"China has been willing, and will continue to be willing, to join hands with the EU for mutual benefit, despite the fast-changing global economic situation," Wen said.
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The EU is the largest trading partner of China, which is the world's second-largest economy after the United States.
In his meeting this month with visiting German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Wen said China would consider helping in the debt crisis through the European Stability Mechanism and the European Financial Stability Facility.
In his latest statement, Wen said Europe cannot depend too heavily on China.
"We especially expect the debt-stricken nations, according to their own situations, to strengthen fiscal consolidation, reduce their deficits and lower their debt risks," Wen said.
Van Rompuy was quoted as saying he welcomed China's interest, noting China in the past had invested in sovereign bonds of individual countries and by investing in European stability instruments.
But "it's up to China to make its own decisions in contributing to the stability of the eurozone," he said.
Barroso urged Beijing to provide a better business environment and more openness for European companies doing business in China.
