Chinese President Xi Jinping is embarking on his first visit to Europe in five years, aiming to strengthen ties between China and the European Union (EU). As the two have become each other's second-largest trading partners, nearly $100 million worth of goods flow between them every hour, highlighting the deep economic interdependence.
Both China and the EU are committed to upholding multilateralism and promoting multipolarity within the global community. They strive for independence and autonomy in their respective policy decisions, reflecting a shared desire to shape their own futures amidst global shifts.
However, President Xi's visit comes at a time when Europe is experiencing internal divisions over its approach to China and the United States. In March 2023, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivered the notable \"de-risking from China\" speech, advocating a moderate version of the U.S.-led de-coupling policy. Shortly after, French President Emmanuel Macron cautioned against diminishing trade and diplomatic ties with China, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced relationship.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz faced criticism for prioritizing Germany's business interests over the EU's long-term strategic goals during his first visit to Beijing. This tension highlights the EU's struggle to balance economic cooperation with strategic autonomy.
European leaders are advocating for a path that maintains strong ties with China without becoming overly reliant on the United States. Macron has emphasized that being an ally does not equate to being a vassal, asserting Europe's right to independent decision-making. Charles Michel, President of the European Council, echoed this sentiment by outlining strategies to bolster the EU's strategic autonomy and sovereignty, including increased defense spending and industrial investment.
Interviews with European officials, business leaders, and experts reveal a common aspiration to look beyond current divisions and foster long-term cooperation. Peter Grk, Secretary General of the Bled Strategic Forum in Slovenia, emphasized the importance of engagement, listening, and finding compromises to advance the global community. Jens Eskelund, President of the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, highlighted the unique aspects of the EU-China relationship, advocating for a focus on areas that are distinct from the broader China-U.S. dynamics.
A notable example of successful EU-China cooperation is their joint effort to save the Paris Agreement in 2017. When the U.S. announced its withdrawal, China and the EU reaffirmed their commitment to the climate pact, underscoring their dedication to global climate action despite political challenges.
Experts like Huw Slater from ClientEarth believe that the longstanding relationship between the EU and China, built on close engagement between policymakers, experts, and civil society, provides a solid foundation for enduring cooperation. This long-term approach is seen as essential for maintaining a stable and productive relationship, even amid differing systems and occasional disagreements.
As Europe faces the challenge of navigating its relationship with both China and the United States, the emphasis on long-termism and strategic autonomy appears to be the key to fostering a resilient and collaborative partnership with China.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
