Navigating Challenges and Seeking Cooperation in a Shifting Global Landscape

The upcoming 25th China-EU Summit, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties, is poised to be a crucial event. Officials and analysts anticipate that the summit, scheduled for Thursday in Beijing, will serve as a platform to strengthen strategic communication, foster mutually beneficial cooperation, and contribute to global stability amidst current uncertainties.

The summit will be co-chaired by Premier Li Qiang and European Union leaders. The meeting is attracting significant international attention, reflecting the importance of the relationship between China and the EU. Both entities are major players in shaping a multipolar world, representing significant markets that support globalization and diverse civilizations that champion cultural exchange.

China believes that the relationship has matured over the past five decades, accumulating experience and positive momentum. This foundation is expected to help both sides navigate challenges in an evolving global landscape. The European Council has described the summit as an opportunity for high-level engagement, aiming for frank and constructive discussions on matters of mutual interest. The EU seeks a fair and balanced relationship that benefits both parties.

The summit takes place against a backdrop of increasing global trade tensions and follows a series of high-level bilateral exchanges aimed at strengthening economic and political ties. Bilateral trade has seen substantial growth, and two-way investment has also increased significantly. Furthermore, there is more frequent people-to-people exchange, and effective coordination and cooperation is taking place in climate response and other areas.

Despite the positive developments, the relationship faces challenges. Some within the EU have emphasized the "partner-competitor-rival" dynamic, exaggerated specific economic and trade issues, and raised unfounded accusations regarding the Ukraine issue. These actions have caused disruptions to the relationship.

Analysts suggest that the EU should avoid hindering cooperation, overemphasizing competitive aspects, or resorting to unilateral restrictions. Instead, both sides should prioritize their shared goals, build consensus, and translate dialogue into concrete outcomes to boost confidence in the relationship. China and the EU share a commitment to multilateralism and are working together to address global challenges such as climate change and terrorism.

The summit is seen as an opportunity to reset relations under new international conditions. The shifting global power dynamics are prompting the EU to develop a more coherent China strategy. Europe faces a fundamental choice between deepening economic integration with China or maintaining geopolitical distance to satisfy US expectations.