Missed Opportunities and Misinformation Cloud EU-China Relations

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's recent speech on EU-China relations, delivered in the European Parliament, presented some positive aspects, a departure from her previously hostile rhetoric. However, the speech still contained elements of misinformation and fear-mongering regarding China.

Von der Leyen began by acknowledging China's significant economic progress, highlighting its GDP growth. However, the figures cited were inaccurate, understating the actual economic expansion since China's reform and opening-up policies began. She then focused on the perceived limitations of EU access to the Chinese market, while overlooking the substantial trade volume between the EU and China, which surpasses that of the EU with Switzerland.

The potential for increased China-EU trade remains substantial. Ratifying the China-EU Comprehensive Agreement on Investment would create significant opportunities for European businesses in China. Furthermore, initiating discussions on a free trade agreement could further boost economic ties.

Von der Leyen's remarks also seemed to overlook existing trade agreements, such as the one between China and Switzerland. She should consider firsthand observations of the presence of European goods, particularly cars, in China, and the welcoming attitude of the Chinese government and people towards European companies. This contrasts with the negative claims made by some EU politicians.

The speech also included criticisms of China's industrial subsidies, despite expert opinions suggesting that China's competitiveness in electric vehicles and batteries stems from research, development, and investment. The EU itself provides substantial subsidies to various sectors.

Furthermore, von der Leyen's comments on China's relationship with Russia appeared to be an attempt to find a scapegoat for the EU's policy failures regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Her assertion that China is enabling Russia's war economy ignores the fact that many countries, including those in the EU, continue to trade with Moscow.

China will not allow its foreign policy to be dictated by any external entity. Von der Leyen's lecture on respecting sovereignty and principles is paradoxical, given her stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict and the actions of the US and Israel. It is time for the EU to adjust its approach and restore a more constructive relationship with China.