China and the EU have signed a milestone agreement to collaborate on the development of 5G networks and technologies.
The agreement covers a commitment to reciprocity and openness of access to 5G network research funding and market access.
As part of the declaration, the EU and China aim to reach a global understanding on the concept, basic functions and key technologies of 5G networks by the end of the year.
It also covers exploring possibilities for joint research into the area of 5G, the promotion of global standardization for the technology and work to determine the most promising radiofrequency bands for 5G.
According to EU commissioner Günther Oettinger, 5G "will be the backbone of our digital economies and societies worldwide. This is why we strongly support and seek a global consensus and cooperation on 5G,” he said.
“With today's signature with China, the EU has now teamed up with the most important Asian partners in a global race to make 5G a reality by 2020. It's a crucial step in making 5G a success."
China is expected to be a major player in the development of 5G and its establishment as a global standard, and is the world's largest potential market for 5G services.