At the 24th China-EU Summit held on December 7 in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of an independent European Union in fostering stronger China-EU relations. He stated that China and the EU should not perceive each other as rivals due to differences in systems, nor should they reduce cooperation because competition exists, or engage in confrontation over disagreements.
President Xi’s remarks highlight a pivotal moment in the China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. As global challenges intensify, the need for collaboration between China and the EU becomes increasingly significant.
Special Representative of the Chinese Government on European Affairs, Wu Hongbo, addressed concerns over the EU’s evolving stance towards China. He noted confusion arising from the EU’s characterization of China as a “partner,” “competitor,” and “systemic rival” simultaneously. “When driving to a crossroads, we expect one light—red, green, or yellow. But now we have a strange situation where all three lights are on at the same time,” Wu remarked.
The complexities of competition and rivalry were further discussed by experts. Jeffrey Sachs, a professor at Columbia University, acknowledged that while companies thrive on competition to produce better products and gain larger markets, competition should not escalate into rivalry. “China is a low-cost producer of photovoltaics and electric vehicles, so it will naturally sell a lot in U.S. and European markets,” Sachs explained.
However, there is concern that competition is being used to fuel rivalry, particularly when influenced by external parties. Instances where the EU appears to align with U.S. policies—such as discussions on decoupling, actions related to the Taiwan region, and restrictions on advanced chip exports—have raised questions about the EU’s autonomy.
Gladden J. Pappin, President of the Institute of Hungarian International Affairs, stressed the importance of Europe pursuing its own foreign policy interests. “We have to reframe the debate and realize that European strategic interests include being able to pursue more of its own foreign policy,” he stated.
Eric Solheim, former Under-Secretary-General of the UN, highlighted the shared goals of China and the EU, particularly in environmental progress and promoting a more peaceful world. “For 200 years, Europe and the United States have been very, very close. But in today’s world, in many areas, Europe has as much in common with China,” Solheim observed.
French President Emmanuel Macron has also emphasized the need for a more autonomous Europe. “For me, it’s very important to have a much more autonomous Europe and European Union,” Macron stated.
Historically, the EU has demonstrated independence in its foreign policy decisions. When the U.S. withdrew from the Paris Agreement, Europe collaborated with China to sustain the accord. President Xi underscored the strategic significance of the China-EU relationship amid an increasingly turbulent international situation, advocating for enhanced cooperation based on mutual respect and understanding.
The future of China-EU relations hinges on the EU’s ability to act independently, balancing its partnerships and navigating competition without succumbing to external pressures. As both parties stand at this new starting point, there is an opportunity to strengthen ties and contribute to global peace, stability, and prosperity.
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The future of China-EU relations is conditioned on EU's 'independence'
cgtn.com
