EU’s Top Diplomat Visits China Amid Global Tensions
On Thursday, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell commenced his visit to China. Over the course of his three-day visit, he planned to engage with business leaders and academics in Shanghai. Central to the discussions are topics like the EU’s strategic autonomy, escalating EU-China trade tensions, the intensifying Israel-Palestine conflict, and the Ukraine crisis.
Borrell implored Beijing to perceive EU-China relations independently of its competition with the US. He cast doubt on China’s neutrality regarding the Ukraine issue. Experts believe that the statements made before the visit highlight existing misconceptions in Europe concerning their relationship with China. However, Borrell’s trip holds potential to reconcile differences and seek collaborative avenues.
On the first day of his visit, Borrell remarked on a social media platform (formerly Twitter): “Inspiring exchange in Shanghai with European companies on economic and business challenges. Neither China nor we can overlook each other’s markets.”
This trip sees Borrell co-chairing the 12th EU-China Strategic Dialogue alongside China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Furthermore, he is slated to address students and faculty at Peking University.
Clarifying the EU-China Perspective
Prior to his arrival in China, Borrell spoke with the South China Morning Post (SCMP), emphasizing the need for China to decouple its perception of Europe from its US rivalry. He stated that the EU acknowledges China’s significance, expecting the same in return.
The discussions with Minister Wang Yi would touch upon global crises, including the tensions in the Israel-Palestine region and the Ukraine situation. Borrell, however, mentioned that the EU isn’t entirely convinced about China’s proclaimed neutrality in these conflicts.
Sun Keqin, a researcher from the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, voiced concerns over Borrell’s statements. He suggested that such viewpoints might be influenced by the US. Keqin highlighted China’s consistent support for the EU’s strategic autonomy, hoping for the EU’s elevated role in a multipolar world. Keqin added, “What China opposes is US interventions hindering China-EU cooperation.”
The Chinese Foreign Ministry has expressed optimism about Borrell’s visit, emphasizing its potential to nurture China-EU relations. The goal is to fortify strategic communication, mutual trust, and manage differences given the numerous shared interests.
Expert opinions indicate that the Chinese side will clarify its stance on recent EU policies concerning China during Borrell’s visit. The endeavor is to rectify certain misconceptions and deter any unilateral EU policies that might strain bilateral relations.
Bloomberg described Borrell’s mission as intricate, considering the current trade atmosphere. The EU has recently been scrutinizing China’s subsidies on electric vehicles.
Sun Keqin reiterated the trip’s importance in discussing differences and finding common ground, especially in global governance and economic collaboration.
Jiang Feng, from Shanghai International Studies University, emphasized Europe’s potential for strategic autonomy. He said, “Europe must diversify its options. Leaning entirely towards the US eliminates possibilities with China.” Feng added that Europe should leverage its influence for peace and not engage in power confrontations, hinting at the aftermath of US-Russia tensions which adversely affected Europe.
Most experts agree that despite past challenges, both China and the EU are keen on stabilizing their relationship, reflecting a broader consensus.
Global Concerns on the Agenda
While not officially on the meeting’s agenda, the escalating Israel-Hamas tensions will likely be discussed, as per senior EU sources cited by SCMP.
Borrell hinted at the possibility of EU-China collaboration on the Israel-Palestine issue but voiced reservations about China’s stance on the Ukraine crisis.
Gao Jian of Shanghai International Studies University clarified China’s non-partisan position in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. “China will not tolerate interference in its ties with Russia or its development trajectory. Our strategic independence is paramount,” he affirmed.
Gao also prompted the European side to introspect on the root causes of such global conflicts. He reminded Europe of its peace-seeking foundations post-war. In Gao’s view, confronting the Russia-Ukraine issue aggressively is neither rational nor feasible.
Borrell’s visit, occurring amidst global turmoil, signifies the urgency and intent to build bridges, resolve misconceptions, and foster a collaborative spirit between the EU and China. With a world watching closely, these interactions could shape the course of global politics and economics in the coming years.
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