According to the professor, the “Chinese leadership is seeking to find a more sympathetic audience, and also, make sure that European markets remain open, even in the greater tension between the United States and China.”
While initially labeled as rivals, the European Union and China have evolved into each other’s largest trading partners since 2023. This trade predominantly involves goods like electric vehicles and pharmaceuticals. Negotiations are underway for the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment, aiming to expand EU access to the Chinese market.
However, challenges persist. Quality issues with medical supplies from China during the COVID-19 pandemic led to investigations into the virus’s origin, causing disruptions in trade. Arms trade remains contentious, with the EU imposing an embargo on China since 1989.
Despite tensions, both entities remain interdependent as key trade partners and global influencers, shaping international dynamics.
