Balancing diplomacy: EU eyes China amidst Russo-Ukrainian war
The spokesperson for the European Commission highlighted the significant role China plays in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian conflict. He also emphasised that the upcoming summit in Beijing could be an opportunity to deepen relations between the European Union and China and to discuss common international challenges.
Without China's support, Russia would not be able to conduct the war in Ukraine on such a scale, assessed European Commission spokesperson Anouar El Anouni. His statement was made in the context of the Chinese leader Xi Jinping's visit to Moscow, where he will participate in the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany.
El Anouni noted that China, as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, is obliged to respond to violations of the United Nations Charter, and Russia's invasion of Ukraine is such an example. European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho added that China could play a significant role in ending the conflict.
In the context of potentially warming relations between the EU and China, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa exchanged congratulatory letters with Xi Jinping on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. An EU-China summit is planned for July in Beijing, which is expected to be an opportunity to address longstanding problems in bilateral relations.
European Union's strategy towards China
Paula Pinho emphasised that the EU's strategy is not about "decoupling" from China, as the US does, but about "risk reduction." Cooperation with China is possible in many areas, such as trade and climate, although there are contentious issues like overproduction by Chinese companies.
Despite a series of meetings between EU leaders and Chinese authorities, analysts point to obstacles in resetting relations. The strengthening China-Russia alliance and the Chinese trade surplus are the main challenges. Additionally, American tariffs on Chinese goods may redirect them to EU countries, posing another challenge for the community.
