EU issues caution to China concerning unsustainable trade surplus and support for Russia's conflict against Ukraine

EU-China Summit: A Mixed Bag of Concerns and Cooperation

EU leaders gathered in Beijing for a summit that saw both positive affirmations and pressing concerns regarding the relationship between the two global powers.

On one hand, there was a shared agreement on the urgent need for global action to combat climate change. EU leaders welcomed China's cooperation in this area, expressing the belief that the EU and China should lead the charge in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

However, the summit also saw the EU expressing continued concerns about several issues. One of the main points of contention was the lack of clarity surrounding Chinese data security rules and cross-border data flows. The EU leaders emphasised the need for reciprocity in the digital sphere, citing limited access for European companies in China.

Another concern raised was the issue of Chinese military supplies to Russia. At the summit, EU leaders warned China against providing material support to sustain Russia's military-industrial base, expressing their view that such actions pose a threat to peace in Europe.

The EU also voiced its concerns about increased tensions in the Taiwan Strait, as well as about the treatment of human rights defenders and minorities in certain regions. The EU reiterated its deep concerns about the human rights situation in Xinjiang and Tibet, as well as in Hong Kong.

Trade disputes were another contentious issue. The EU highlighted the negative impact of export controls on rare earths and permanent magnets introduced by China, and called for progress on longstanding market access issues. The EU also insisted on resolving disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The EU also expressed its opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion in the Taiwan Strait. The EU's trade relations with China were deemed critically unbalanced, with a trade deficit in goods reaching €305 billion.

On a positive note, the EU reaffirmed its commitment to joint EU-China efforts on climate change, and welcomed the holding of the 40th session of the EU-China Human Rights Dialogue. The summit also provided an opportunity for the EU to reiterate its consistent One China policy.

Despite the numerous concerns raised, it is clear that the EU-China relationship is a complex one, with both cooperation and disagreements playing a significant role. As the two powers continue to navigate their relationship, it is hoped that dialogue and understanding will prevail, leading to a more balanced and harmonious relationship.

EU issues caution to China concerning unsustainable trade surplus and support for Russia's conflict against Ukraine