China says joining EBRD reciproccal to all sides

BEIJING -- The Foreign Ministry said on Friday that China joining the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is a reciprocal choice for all parties.

Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying told a regular press briefing that China wanted to connect its "Belt and Road" initiative with the European Union investment plan, known as the Juncker Plan, and improve cooperation with EBRD.

China has expressed interest in joining the EBRD, said Hua while answering a related question.

The Belt and Road initiative was proposed by President Xi Jinping in 2013 to revive the ancient trade route between Asia, Europe and Africa through investment and infrastructure programs. The Juncker Plan was initiated by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker to boost the European economy.

"We believe that China's involvement would be conducive to all parties," Hua said.