Can EU and China bridge differences at 2020 summits?

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EU-China Summits Face Significant Hurdles in Bridging Divergent Views

The upcoming European Union and China summits in 2020 are positioned to build upon their strategic partnership, yet substantial differences persist regarding human rights, trade, and security. While the EU aims to invigorate its relationship with Beijing, a crucial trading partner, fundamental disagreements on values such as freedom and democracy remain. The EU's new leadership, including Charles Michel and Josep Borrell, has engaged with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, setting the stage for discussions at two regular summits and a special event in Leipzig, Germany, during 2020.
Persistent Disagreements on Core Values and Trade Practices

A significant challenge for the EU-China relationship lies in the divergent perspectives on fundamental values. While the EU champions freedom and democracy, China's approach differs considerably, impacting the broader partnership. Furthermore, in trade, Charles Michel has stressed the necessity of free trade and investments that uphold a level playing field and reciprocity. This implies a call for China to address practices such as the use of subsidies and inconsistent product standards, which have been points of contention.
Security Concerns and Growing Influence

European diplomats have voiced apprehension regarding China's escalating influence and its increasingly assertive international policies under President Xi Jinping. Accusations of espionage in the West, including the theft of trade secrets and military and political snooping, have further complicated the security landscape. NATO has formally acknowledged the "challenges" presented by China, highlighting a growing recognition of these issues. The role of Chinese technology firms, particularly Huawei, in the development of Europe's 5G mobile networks has become a focal point of security concerns, with the United States urging European nations to ban the company due to its perceived ties to the Chinese government.
Human Rights as a Major Point of Contention

China's human rights record remains a significant hurdle in EU-China relations. Josep Borrell has raised concerns with his Chinese counterpart regarding the crackdown on Muslim Uyghurs in Xinjiang and the ongoing protests in Hong Kong. These issues represent deeply held values for the EU and present a stark contrast to China's policies, underscoring the complexity of finding common ground and potentially bridging these fundamental differences during the planned 2020 engagements.

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Can EU and China bridge differences at 2020 summits?

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