Europe Day 2026 highlights cultural exchanges and partnership

On May 8, the Delegation of the European Union to China marked Europe Day 2026 with a vibrant reception at its Beijing premises. The event brought together over 1,000 guests from diplomatic representatives, partners, media, and the public, from China and Europe and third countries.

EU Ambassador to China Jorge Toledo hosted the event, and in his opening remarks, he underscored the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation in a rapidly evolving global context.

“Europe Day is a reminder that peace, prosperity, and unity are not given -- they are built, step by step, through effort, cooperation, and shared purpose,” he said, “In today’s complex and uncertain world, this lesson is more important than ever.”

EU Ambassador to China Jorge Toledo delivers a speech at the event. (Photo courtesy of European Union)

Toledo stressed that EU-China cooperation is “not only possible – it is indispensable.” He singled out the green transition as one of the most vital and feasible areas for joint efforts.

“Climate change is a global challenge that demands global solutions. Nothing effective can be done to fight climate change without the engagement of China and the EU. The EU stands ready to engage with China, address differences with clarity and respect, and deepen cooperation where our interests align.”

The ambassador also acknowledged that this marked his fourth Europe day as EU Ambassador to China, and likely his last in the near term, as he is set to leave China this summer.

“I want to use this occasion to, from the bottom of my heart, say how much I have appreciated this wonderful experience, how much I have learnt from this amazing country, from its people and from its ancient culture and civilization which is now blended into one of the most modern and technologically advanced countries in the world,” he remarked.

All 27 Member States represent their culture at the booths area. (Photo by Xu Lin / China.org.cn)

Guests participate in cultural experience activities. (Photo by Xu Lin / China.org.cn)

A central feature of the event was the EU Member States Cultural Booths area, where all 27 Member States were represented. Each booth provided an engaging window into European life via interactive displays of culture, art, and food, allowing visitors to explore both the diversity and shared values of the EU.

Food and beverages served at the EU Member States Cultural Booths area. (Photo by Xu Lin / China.org.cn)

At the EU Geographical Indications booth, guests were invited to taste some beverages and food products covered by the EU-China Agreement on protection of Geographical Indications. The themed booths, together with live musical performances, created a vibrant, festive atmosphere throughout the venue.

A group photo taken at the Europe Day 2026 reception. (Photo courtesy of European Union)

Observed annually on May 9, Europe Day commemorates the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundation for today’s European Union. Over time, it has evolved into a meaningful platform for wide range cooperation, people-to-people and cultural exchanges, which enhance mutual understanding on the European continent.