As China and the EU convene their 24th bilateral summit on December 7, the meeting marks a significant milestone—the 20th anniversary of the China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership. This summit presents an important opportunity to chart the future course of China-EU relations in a new era.
Recently, the European Union’s characterization of China as a “partner, competitor, and rival” has drawn criticism from the Chinese side. China views the EU primarily as a partner, emphasizing collaboration over competition and rivalry. The mixed messaging from the EU raises concerns about inconsistent approaches in bilateral relations.
The EU’s introduction of a “de-risking strategy” in 2023 has further stirred apprehension about its true intentions. The creation of new terminology without clear definitions can lead to misunderstandings and reflects a potential disconnect in Europe’s perception of China. Such actions may indicate underlying uncertainties within the EU regarding its policy towards China.
Internal differences within EU institutions have become more pronounced in recent years, not only on global issues but also concerning China. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel have exhibited differing perspectives on international affairs, particularly in the context of China-EU cooperation.
Despite these challenges, there has been a notable trend of “hot politics, cold economics” in China-EU relations. Since the end of 2022, several European leaders—including Olaf Scholz, Emmanuel Macron, Valdis Dombrovskis, Pedro Sanchez, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and Viktor Orban—have visited China. These visits have elevated the China-Europe relationship, highlighting the importance of continued engagement and dialogue.
For the China-EU partnership to flourish, it is imperative that both sides prioritize mutual understanding and cooperation. By focusing on common interests and addressing differences through open communication, China and the EU can build a more robust and resilient relationship that benefits both parties and contributes to global stability.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
