As 2023 marks the 20th anniversary of the China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership and the 25th anniversary of the China-EU Summit mechanism, both sides are taking the opportunity to reflect on past achievements and set the stage for future collaboration.
During the 24th China-EU Summit held in early December, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of enhancing the breadth and depth of cooperation. He highlighted the need to strengthen the bond built on shared interests between China and the European Union, signaling a commitment to collaborative growth.
Experts from both regions are keenly analyzing the current state of China-EU relations and what the future may hold. Adam Dunnett, Secretary General of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China, notes that economic ties have deepened over the past two decades, with both parties benefiting from increased trade and investment.
Shada Islam, Founder and Director of the New Horizons Project, emphasizes the significance of fostering mutual understanding. “It’s crucial for China and the EU to identify common goals while respecting each other’s unique perspectives,” she says.
Professor Huang Jing, Director of the Institute of the U.S. and Pacific Studies at Shanghai International Studies University, highlights areas of divergence. “While there are differences in approach, particularly in areas like technology and market access, dialogue remains the key to resolving such issues,” he explains.
Michael Schumann, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the German Federal Association for Economic Development and Foreign Trade, underscores the potential for future cooperation. “As we look to 2024, there’s a strong desire on both sides to enhance collaboration in sustainable development, innovation, and global governance,” he observes.
Looking ahead, the focus will be on how China and the EU define their shared interests and navigate their differences. With both sides expressing a commitment to deepen ties, stakeholders around the world are watching closely to see how this pivotal relationship evolves.
Reference(s):
From Past to Future: What can we anticipate in China-EU relations?
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