As the China-EU Summit draws near, Brussels is reaffirming its commitment to fair trade, underscoring the importance of balanced economic relations between China and the European Union (EU). The upcoming China-EU High-Level Economic and Trade Dialogue (HED), scheduled for September 25, will be co-chaired by Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and EU Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis.
Valdis Dombrovskis highlighted concerns over the bloc's \"unbalanced economic relationship\" but emphasized that Beijing and Brussels remain \"key trading partners.\" He assured that Brussels has no intention to \"decouple\" from Beijing, aiming to maintain robust economic ties.
During a recent meeting at the G20 Summit in India, European Council President Charles Michel engaged in discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. Both leaders expressed their interest in sustaining \"stable and constructive relations\" and continuing dialogues like the HED and political engagements to address mutual challenges and foster understanding.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged Beijing's essential role in tackling global issues such as development, climate change, and the Ukraine crisis. Last year's dialogue emphasized global economic challenges and WTO reform, culminating in a consensus on the shared responsibility of maintaining a stable global economy and enhancing cooperation in areas like green finance.
However, tensions persist as Beijing has voiced objections to the EU's classification of China as a partner, competitor, and \"systemic rival,\" criticizing Brussels for its \"discriminatory\" treatment of Chinese companies. The EU has recently implemented anti-dumping duties on Chinese fiber cables and tungsten carbide, measures that could potentially lead to retaliatory actions and impact the EU's economic interests.
The European Commission's investigation into Chinese electric vehicle subsidies, viewed by Beijing as \"naked protectionism,\" raises concerns about the EU's commitment to free trade and its efforts to strengthen relations amidst global economic challenges. The outcome of the HED and continued dialogues will be crucial in shaping the future China-EU relationship.
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Brussels' commitment to fair trade vital for China-EU relations
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