As Chinese President Xi Jinping embarks on a journey to Europe, the continent finds itself grappling with conflicting sentiments regarding Beijing’s expanding influence and the ongoing rivalry between the United States and China. European car manufacturers are facing a decline in sales as Chinese electric vehicles, backed by subsidies, gain momentum in the market. Additionally, concerns have been raised about suspected Chinese espionage activities in various European capitals. The continuation of defense trade between China and Russia is also a cause for alarm, particularly among those in Europe who advocate for Ukraine, a country torn apart by conflict, and fear further Russian aggression beyond its borders.
Despite these reservations, the economic relationship between Europe and China remains robust, with EU-China trade estimated at a staggering 2.3 billion euros daily. President Xi Jinping is keen on revitalizing and strengthening ties with European leaders, following a prolonged period of disconnection due to the Covid-19 pandemic. His itinerary includes stops in France, Serbia, and Hungary, countries perceived as favorable toward China and closely aligned with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where significant Chinese investments have been made.
The outcome of Xi’s visit to Europe is being closely monitored in Washington, as any indication of wavering European support for key U.S. foreign policy objectives could have far-reaching consequences. Simultaneously, there is growing uncertainty in Europe regarding the future of U.S. backing for its trans-Atlantic allies. The reception for Xi in France, where protests demanding action on Tibetan and Uyghur human rights are expected, reflects the underlying tension between economic engagement and human rights advocacy.
Challenges and Expectations for Fair Trade Policies
On the agenda for Xi’s meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron is a push for fairer trade practices and a call for China to utilize its influence with Russia to facilitate a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. The European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, is anticipated to join Macron in advocating for greater transparency in trade relations and for China to play a constructive role in addressing global security challenges. The EU’s scrutiny of Chinese subsidies and the potential implementation of tariffs on electric vehicle imports from China underscore the complexities of managing economic partnerships in the midst of geopolitical rivalries.
President Xi Jinping’s visit to Europe serves as a litmus test for the delicate balance between economic cooperation and strategic autonomy. The diverging interests of various stakeholders, from car manufacturers to human rights activists, highlight the multifaceted challenges facing Europe in navigating its relationship with China amidst a shifting global landscape.
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