EU•중국, 투자협정 체결 합의…"中시장접근권 전례없이 확대"br br China has reached an investment deal with the 27-member European Union,... that will open new market opportunities for businesses of both sides.br Kim Hyo-sun reports.br The European Union and China on Wednesday inked a major investment deal following seven years of negotiations.br The agreement, in particular, will grant greater access for European companies to the Chinese market,... but it has the potential of further souring Beijing's ties with Washington.br European companies will be given additional access to many of China's industries, including the electric car and hybrid vehicle sectors, as well as private hospitals, telecoms and cloud services.br Speaking during a video conference with European leaders,... Chinese President Xi Jinping said the deal showcases Beijing's determination and confidence in opening up its market.br He added that the agreement will offer a better business environment and wider markets for investors from both sides.br For the agreement to enter into force,... it needs to be ratified by the European Parliament,... but the issue of China's human rights could be a sticking point.br Following the conclusion of the deal,... the White House openly criticized China for its response to COVID-19.br Taking to Twitter on Wednesday,... the National Security Council criticized China for hindering a transparent investigation into the origin of the virus.br Kim Hyo-sun, Arirang News.