China and the European Union (EU) pledged Tuesday to set a good example of international cooperation in the 21st century.

The two sides made the pledge in a joint press release after the third round of China-EU high-level strategic dialogue. The dialogue was held in Beijing on July 9-10, co-chaired by Chinese State Councilor Dai Bingguo and Catherine Ashton, EU high representative for foreign affairs and the European Commission's vice president.

"The two sides spoke highly of the positive role that the China-EU High-level Strategic Dialogue has played over the past three years in increasing understanding, trust and cooperation between China and Europe," said the release.

China and the EU share broad common interests and are increasingly interdependent in a changing world, said the release.

They agreed "they should be open to new ideas for working together effectively, and remain committed to be a good example of international cooperation in the 21st century," it said.

In the release, China and the EU vowed to continue to consolidate their comprehensive strategic partnership on the basis of mutual respect and mutual benefit.

"China reaffirmed its support for European integration, Europe's efforts to solve its debt crisis, and the stability of the euro zone," said the release, adding that the EU reaffirmed its support for China's peaceful development and respect for China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The two sides agreed that they will address their differences and concerns in a constructive manner, said the release.

"They decided to enhance cooperation on international issues," it added.

China and the EU will intensify dialogue on global and regional areas of interest to both sides, including regular consultations at all levels on foreign policy, as well as contacts between special representatives and special envoys, said the release.

During the dialogue, the two sides also agreed to hold regular dialogue on defense and security policy and stressed their willingness to strengthen cooperation in anti-piracy naval escorts, according to the release.

(Xinhua News Agency July 10, 2012)