Date Posted: 2021-05-26
Seeking New Foundations: Exploring the Potential for Resetting the EU-China Relationship
The relationship between the European Union and China, a complex interplay of economic interdependence, strategic divergence, and shared global challenges, has faced increasing strains in recent years. A report by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) examines the potential for resetting this crucial relationship, exploring the opportunities for improved cooperation, the obstacles to overcome, and the strategic choices that will shape the future of EU-China engagement. The analysis delves into the key areas of contention, the evolving geopolitical landscape, and the potential pathways for building a more stable and productive partnership.
The need for a reset stems from a confluence of factors. Concerns about China’s human rights record, its assertive foreign policy, and its trade practices have led to a more critical stance from the EU. The imposition of sanctions by both sides over issues such as Xinjiang and Hong Kong has further strained relations. Meanwhile, the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains and highlighted the need for greater resilience and diversification.
Despite these challenges, there is a recognition on both sides that the EU-China relationship remains strategically important. China is a major economic power and a key player in addressing global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and nuclear proliferation. The EU, for its part, is a major trading partner for China and a significant source of investment and technology. Finding ways to manage the tensions and to build on shared interests is essential for both sides.
The ECFR report suggests that a reset of the EU-China relationship will require a more realistic and strategic approach from both sides. The EU needs to be clear about its values and interests and to be prepared to defend them when necessary. It also needs to be more assertive in promoting its agenda and in addressing concerns about China’s behavior. China, for its part, needs to be more willing to address the concerns of the EU and to engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation.
One of the key areas for a potential reset is in the economic realm. The EU has long-standing concerns about market access for European companies in China, intellectual property rights protection, and the level playing field for competition. Addressing these concerns will require China to implement meaningful reforms and to create a more transparent and predictable business environment. The EU, in turn, needs to be open to dialogue and to be willing to work with China to address its concerns about trade imbalances and investment restrictions.
Another important area for a potential reset is in the geopolitical realm. The EU and China have different perspectives on issues such as human rights, democracy, and international law. Addressing these differences will require both sides to engage in frank and open dialogue and to be willing to find common ground. The EU also needs to be more assertive in promoting its values and in defending human rights around the world.
The ECFR report emphasizes the importance of European unity and strategic autonomy in navigating the challenges and opportunities of the EU-China relationship. The EU needs to speak with one voice and to act in a coordinated manner to be effective in its engagement with China. It also needs to strengthen its own capabilities and to reduce its dependence on other major powers.
A successful reset of the EU-China relationship will require a long-term commitment from both sides. It will require a willingness to overcome obstacles, to bridge differences, and to build trust. It will also require a clear understanding of mutual interests and a shared commitment to addressing global challenges. The potential for a more stable and productive partnership is significant, but it will depend on the choices that the EU and China make in the years to come. The key lies in finding a balance between competition and cooperation and in upholding shared values while navigating diverging interests.
– Davide Pena –
