BEIJING: China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, called on the European Union (EU) not to “vacillate” and emphasized the need for the EU to “clarify” its strategic relationship with Beijing. Wang made these remarks during a meeting with EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on the sidelines of Southeast Asian talks in Jakarta, according to a statement from China’s foreign ministry.
The statement comes after Germany, Europe’s leading economy, announced plans to “de-risk” its ties with China. Concerns about China’s growing assertiveness and close relationship with Russia have prompted other EU leaders to seek reduced reliance on Beijing.
Wang urged the EU to “clarify the positioning of the strategic partnership between the two sides” and to promote the advancement of China-EU relations. He cautioned against vacillation and discouraging actions or statements that would hinder progress. Wang stressed that there are no conflicts of fundamental interests between China and the EU.
EU’s Approach to China
The EU faces a challenge in defining its approach to China, striking a balance between concerns about overreliance on the world’s second-largest economy and the desire to maintain ties. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen previously described the EU’s approach as “de-risking rather than decoupling,” indicating that the bloc aims to work and trade with China while managing potential risks.
The issue of Ukraine was also discussed during the meeting. Wang expressed China’s support for the establishment of a balanced, effective, and sustainable European security architecture. He reiterated Beijing’s commitment to promoting peace talks.
