European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde has emphasized the urgent need for international collaboration to navigate mounting trade uncertainties, during an exclusive interview with CGTN. Her remarks come as geopolitical tensions and tariff disputes continue to ripple through global markets.
"No single economy can insulate itself from today's interconnected challenges," Lagarde stated, highlighting the ECB's strengthened partnership with the People's Bank of China (PBOC) in financial stability initiatives. The two institutions recently coordinated on currency swap agreements and digital currency research.
The ECB leader praised China's "constructive role" in maintaining multilateral trade frameworks, noting that EU-China bilateral trade reached €856.3 billion in 2023. She specifically cited progress in green energy partnerships and semiconductor supply chain resilience.
Analysts suggest Lagarde's comments signal growing alignment between European and Asian policymakers. "When major central banks synchronize their strategies, it creates stability corridors for businesses worldwide," said ING economist Carsten Brzeski.
The interview concluded with optimism about China's economic reforms, particularly in opening financial markets to overseas investors. Lagarde's remarks are expected to set the tone for upcoming EU-Asia summits focused on sustainable growth initiatives.
