China Advocates for EU to Strengthen Relations Amid U.S. Policy Uncertainty
China encourages the EU to strengthen ties amidst uncertainties from the U.S. administration. EU trade chief Sefcovic is visiting China to address trade imbalances and promote cooperation as U.S. tariffs threaten European automakers. The Chinese editorial stresses stability and calls for a pragmatic approach in EU-China relations.
The state-run Global Times in China has urged the European Union (EU) to make a “rational choice” in fostering stronger relations with China amid the unpredictability caused by the new U.S. administration. This call comes as EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic is set to visit China after a meeting in the United States to address tensions related to potential retaliatory tariffs on billions of dollars in goods.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently announced new tariffs on imported vehicles, which could significantly impact European automakers, notably German manufacturers, who rely on the U.S. for a substantial portion of their exports. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen criticized this U.S. move, labeling it “bad for businesses, worse for consumers,” while reaffirming the EU’s intention to pursue negotiated solutions to safeguard economic interests.
The Global Times editorial emphasized that, as U.S. policy remains uncertain, China is increasingly viewed as a stable ally. Sefcovic is expected to discuss the EU-China trade imbalance, as well as obstacles that European firms experience in China, such as market access challenges and issues with cross-border data transfer. Moreover, he will likely highlight the significance of enhancing EU-China relations given the importance of the EU Single Market for Chinese exports.
In addition to Sefcovic, other high-ranking European officials, including the foreign ministers of France and Portugal, are visiting China. Following discussions with Portugal’s foreign minister, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed support for Europe to maintain its strategic autonomy while enhancing cooperation between China and Europe.
The Global Times concluded by asserting the need for Europe to approach its relationship with China pragmatically, suggesting that it should deliberately deepen ties with China in light of the rapidly shifting international landscape, thereby making a rational choice.
In summary, China’s Global Times has called upon the EU to cultivate deeper relations with China, particularly in light of the uncertainties stemming from U.S. policy changes. With EU officials actively engaging in discussions about trade imbalances and cooperation, China positions itself as a stable option for Europe amidst these complexities, urging a pragmatic and balanced approach towards strengthening ties. The ongoing diplomatic interactions highlight the evolving dynamics within global trade relations.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
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