On July 24th, one of this year’s most significant diplomatic meetings took place: the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between the European Union and the People’s Republic of China. Held in Beijing and described by some as an “inflection point,” the summit appeared more symbolic than substantive. A range of issues was brought to the table, though few yielded concrete results. Topics included:
- Trade imbalances
- Access to critical and ecological materials and technologies
- Human rights concerns
- The war in Ukraine
Let’s examine each of these.
Trade Imbalance
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the trade imbalance: while EU exports to China account for only 8% of trade, Chinese exports to the EU are nearly double, at 14%. Moreover, the strategic importance of China in the supply of solar panels and natural resources vital for green technologies was emphasized.
In response to accusations of “unfair competition,” the Chinese delegation denied engaging in any illegal trade practices, attributing their success to innovation and economies of scale. President Xi Jinping criticized the EU’s anti-subsidy and anti-dumping investigations—particularly regarding electric vehicles—labeling them discriminatory and unilateral. Premier Li Qiang warned that EU-imposed restrictions could undermine economic cooperation, hinting at potential retaliatory measures. China also proposed enhanced cooperation via the China-EU High-Level Economic and Trade Dialogue, particularly in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and financial sectors.
Human Rights
Concerns were raised regarding the human rights situation in Tibet, Hong Kong, and the Xinjiang region. The EU highlighted allegations of restricted freedoms, forced labor, and erosion of judicial independence in Hong Kong. The EU urged China to uphold its international obligations and respect fundamental rights.
China rejected what it called “foreign interference” in its domestic affairs, defending its policies as necessary for stability, poverty reduction, and national unity. Tensions further increased over the “One China Policy” and rising instability in the Taiwan Strait, with the EU calling for the preservation of the status quo.
War in Ukraine
The European Union expressed deep concern over the ongoing war in Ukraine and emphasized the violation of international law by the Russian Federation, labeling it a threat to global stability. The EU urged China to use its influence on Russia to help achieve a just and lasting peace.
China reiterated its neutral stance, calling for a ceasefire and diplomatic dialogue. The Chinese delegation described the conflict as “complex” and stressed the need for negotiation without assigning blame or applying pressure. China presented its 12-point peace plan, which was ultimately deemed insufficient by the EU due to the absence of a clear demand for Russian withdrawal.
Conclusion
This 50th anniversary summit ended with more questions than answers, reflecting the current atmosphere of mutual distrust. However, it may serve as a starting point. Amid rising tensions with the United States over tariffs, Europe could play a strategic role by deepening its engagement with China, potentially attracting investments and setting an example of cooperation. Such efforts could lay the groundwork for mutual trust and contribute to building a new multilateral global order.
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