In the lead-up to the 24th China-EU Summit, Gladden Pappin, president of the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs, shares his perspective on the evolving relationship between the European Union and China. According to Pappin, China's approach to global development is rooted in economic growth and peaceful exchange, which Hungary views as a positive force.
\"Hungary views China not as a threat, but as an opportunity. We have to push back against the idea that there's a zero-sum mentality in the world, that the benefit of one always comes at the expense of the other,\" Pappin explains. He contrasts this with the historical perspective from the United States, where fear of other nations' development was prevalent when the U.S. was the dominant global player.
Pappin emphasizes the importance of shared development, stating that China believes in mutual growth rather than competition. He also acknowledges the challenges that come with international initiatives, such as some European nations distancing themselves from China's Belt and Road Initiative. However, he argues that withdrawing from such economic arrangements leads to higher costs and reduced industrial development.
Looking forward, Pappin advocates for embracing cooperative initiatives from both the East and the West, based on strong national foundations. He believes that fostering collaboration is essential for sustained economic progress and global stability.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
