Beijing and Brussels are set to deepen collaboration at the 25th China-EU Summit this week, with Chinese officials framing the meeting as pivotal for stabilizing international relations during turbulent times. The summit coincides with dual milestones: 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, and the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized the summit's role in advancing 'strategic communication' and countering unilateralism. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will lead discussions in Beijing on Thursday, focusing on economic coordination and multilateral governance.
Since establishing formal ties in 1974, China-EU trade has grown exponentially to surpass €2.3 billion daily, while joint initiatives on climate action and digital innovation have gained momentum. Guo highlighted that cooperation has 'delivered tangible benefits to nearly two billion people' across both regions.
Analysts suggest the meeting could address recent trade friction while exploring new partnerships in green technology and AI regulation. The summit occurs as both sides seek to balance competition with shared interests in global supply chain stability and pandemic recovery efforts.
Beijing reaffirmed its commitment to 'open cooperation' through multilateral frameworks, positioning the summit as a platform to demonstrate 'mature and constructive' great-power diplomacy. Observers will watch for progress on the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment, stalled since 2021.
