Beijing is still awaiting a signal from Brussels on the launch of long-awaited negotiations for an investment agreement that would expand bilateral market access, said a senior Chinese diplomat.

"We're prepared, but we're still waiting for the European Union to say it is ready to talk," the diplomat surnamed Zhang told China Daily. "We have not agreed on timing, although both sides are committed to moving as soon as possible."

Zhang said that the EU is still waiting member states' agreement to move ahead. It began seeking such agreements in May.