Europe is undergoing a period of political change filled with uncertainty. Against this backdrop, maintaining stability in relations with China, a key partner of the European Union (EU), should be among the priorities. Yet, some EU officials continue to focus on targeting Beijing and tarnishing its policy toward Europe. It is crucial for them to realize that adopting an “Americanized” approach to China will only lead to unnecessary geopolitical tensions between the two sides.
Current State of China-EU Relations
During a panel discussion at the World Peace Forum on Sunday, EU Ambassador to China Jorge Toledo claimed that China-EU relations are “in a difficult moment” and have become “more tense.” He defended the EU’s decision to impose punitive tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), while criticizing China over issues such as bilateral people-to-people exchanges and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Toledo’s remarks, in the face of the EU currently waving its tariff stick to frantically suppress China’s EVs, seem very absurd. Today, China and Europe have seen some twists and turns in developing bilateral ties, but some EU officials lack objective and rational understanding of such obstacles. Shifting the blame on China will not help the two sides to resolve their differences.
Misinterpretations and Missteps
Some European politicians believe that it is because of China’s change in EU policy that Europe was “forced to” seek a different approach when dealing with China. But the fact is that China’s position on advocating and promoting the development of China-EU relations in all aspects, including people-to-people exchanges, has been consistent.
China has always attached great importance to ties with Europe, be it from the level of general strategy guidelines or concrete policies. Chinese President Xi Jinping just finished a visit to Europe last month, where he highlighted the Chinese side’s willingness to engage in dialogue and cooperation with Europe. Last week, he reemphasized this point in a congratulatory message to European Council President-elect Antonio Costa. Earlier this month, China began the implementation of a unilateral visa-free policy for citizens from 15 countries, most of which are EU members. These positive signals are strong enough to debunk the smearing against China’s attitude toward Europe.
Influence of Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Over the past few years, Europe’s perception of China has become increasingly negative. On the one hand, some individuals within Europe hype up that Beijing is supporting Moscow in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, hindering the normal development of China-EU relations. However, in fact, Europe wants to impose its political principles and positions on China regarding the Ukraine issue, which is unacceptable to Beijing.
China has consistently advocated for peace and stability in international conflicts, maintaining a neutral stance while encouraging diplomatic solutions. Europe’s insistence that China take a definitive stand against Russia complicates the diplomatic landscape and strains China-EU relations.
Role of United States
On the other hand, under the US’s strong incitement, there is a tendency of “Americanizing” economic and trade policies in Europe. Although currently the EU may not dare to go too far, Europe’s economic coercion against China is detrimental to the bilateral ties and the continent’s own economic interests.
This is only one part of how the US factor has affected China-EU relations. As Washington strengthens its alliance with Europe, its hysteria over China has blinded the eyes of some European policymakers. As a result, the EU now lacks intelligent, capable, and visionary politicians. The US will continue regarding China as its main strategic competitor, no matter who ends up as the next president, but this doesn’t mean the EU should carry on the path of blindly following the US and entirely relying on it over developing a China policy.
Gao Jian, a senior fellow of Beijing Club for International Dialogue at China Public Diplomacy Association, told the Global Times that Europe needs to start to look at realities and problems in a truly objective manner, rather than indulging in its own imagination and fantasy. It should take actions to strive for strategic autonomy instead of just aimlessly calling for it, he added.
Economic Interdependence
In the past few years, despite challenges, close cooperation between China and the EU in the economic and trade fields is enough to support the steady development of bilateral relations. From the point of view of economic interests, Europe still needs China significantly and vice versa. The deepening of China-EU cooperation can realize great potential and bring more benefits to both sides; China has long realized this, so should more European people, especially politicians.
China is the EU’s second-largest trading partner, and the EU is China’s largest. This mutual dependency is evident in various sectors, including technology, automotive, and consumer goods. Both sides have benefited from investments, with numerous European companies establishing a strong presence in the Chinese market and vice versa.
Automotive Industry and Tariff Wars
The recent decision by the EU to impose punitive tariffs on Chinese EVs has been a point of contention. The EU argues that Chinese EVs benefit from unfair subsidies, which harm European manufacturers. However, this move can be seen as protectionist and risks sparking a trade war that could be detrimental to both economies.
China’s EV market is one of the largest in the world, and its advancements in this sector could provide valuable insights and collaborations for European companies. Instead of punitive measures, fostering cooperation and innovation could be a more constructive approach, benefiting both industries and leading to a more sustainable future for automotive technology.
Another area where tensions have surfaced is in people-to-people exchanges. These exchanges, which include educational programs, cultural exchanges, and tourism, are essential for fostering mutual understanding and goodwill. China has shown a willingness to enhance these interactions, as evidenced by the recent implementation of visa-free policies for citizens of several EU countries.
Restricting these exchanges or viewing them through a lens of suspicion only serves to deepen misunderstandings and reduce the opportunity for cultural and intellectual enrichment. Strengthening these ties can build a foundation of trust and cooperation that transcends political differences.
Strategic Autonomy for Europe: Need for Objective Policymaking
The concept of strategic autonomy has been a recurring theme in European political discourse. It refers to Europe’s ability to act independently in its foreign policy and economic decisions, free from undue influence by other powers, notably the United States.
For Europe, achieving strategic autonomy means reassessing its relationship with both the US and China. While the transatlantic alliance remains crucial, Europe must also recognize the importance of a balanced and independent approach towards China. This involves acknowledging China’s role as a global economic powerhouse and a key partner in addressing global challenges such as climate change, global health, and sustainable development.
Europe’s current approach towards China appears to be influenced heavily by external pressures and internal misperceptions. It is vital for European policymakers to adopt a more objective and balanced perspective. This means evaluating China-EU relations based on factual developments and mutual interests rather than succumbing to external narratives.
Gao Jian’s advice for Europe to look at realities and problems objectively is particularly relevant. Europe must navigate its path with a clear vision of its own strategic interests, which includes fostering a stable and cooperative relationship with China.
Moving forward, it is crucial for both Europe and China to engage in open and constructive dialogue. This includes addressing contentious issues directly and working towards mutually beneficial solutions. By doing so, both sides can mitigate unnecessary tensions and build a more resilient and prosperous partnership.
- Economic Cooperation: Europe and China should continue to expand their economic cooperation, particularly in areas like technology, green energy, and infrastructure. Joint ventures and collaborative research can drive innovation and economic growth.
- Diplomatic Engagement: Regular high-level dialogues and diplomatic engagements can help resolve misunderstandings and build trust. Both sides should prioritize communication and seek common ground on global issues.
- Cultural Exchange: Enhancing cultural and educational exchanges can foster greater mutual understanding and appreciation. This can lay the groundwork for a more harmonious relationship in the long term.
- Strategic Autonomy: Europe should strive for strategic autonomy by making independent policy decisions that reflect its own interests and values. This involves balancing its relationships with both the US and China in a way that promotes stability and prosperity.
Europe’s current trajectory of treating China as a ‘shooting target’ risks creating unwarranted geopolitical tensions. It is imperative for European leaders to adopt a more nuanced and objective approach towards China. By recognizing the mutual benefits of a stable and cooperative relationship, Europe and China can work together to address global challenges and achieve shared prosperity.
As the world navigates an era of unprecedented change, the importance of constructive international relationships cannot be overstated. Europe and China, with their significant economic and political influence, have a responsibility to lead by example. Through collaboration, mutual respect, and strategic autonomy, they can pave the way for a more peaceful and prosperous global community.
