Meetings between China and the European Union focused on achieving balanced trade and collaborating on climate change, despite tensions surrounding Tibet protests and the Olympics. EU officials, led by President Jose Manuel Barroso, aimed to address issues such as China's trade deficit and promote sustainable growth. Economic tensions have risen as China's trade surplus with the EU reached 160 billion euros in the previous year. Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao emphasized the importance of cooperation on energy conservation and emissions reduction, highlighting the mutual benefits that outweigh conflicts. Wen stated that a better future for the Sino-EU relationship is possible as long as there is respect, trust, and mutual learning between the two parties. Barroso emphasized that the talks focused on climate change and China's commitment to including domestic emissions in a global climate change agreement post-2012. Both sides acknowledged trade imbalances and the need for a rebalance. The talks, which were planned in advance, were overshadowed by anti-Chinese protests in Tibetan areas, disruptions during the Beijing Olympic torch relay in London and Paris, and Chinese counter-protests. Barroso also expressed approval of China's decision to hold discussions with representatives of the Dalai Lama. Barroso told reporters that while respecting China's sovereignty, they have always supported dialogue as the best way to find a sustainable solution to the Tibet issue. Mandelson urged an end to threats of boycotts and stated that the EU has asked leaders to boycott the Beijing Games' opening ceremony unless China engages in talks with the Dalai Lama. He also mentioned that calls for boycotts and Chinese counter-campaigns against European companies like Carrefour are not beneficial for either side.