Belgium (Brussels, Morning Newspaper) In recent years, the relationship between the European Union (EU) and China has been a topic of great concern. Both parties have been struggling to maintain a balance between their economic interests and their respective values, human rights, and democratic principles. However, it seems that the EU and China are once again at a crossroads.
In a recent statement, the EU has called on its member states to defend international law, human rights, and democratic values in their dealings with China. The statement comes amid concerns that China is increasingly asserting its economic and political influence on the global stage.
The EU’s call for unity and solidarity among its member states is a clear message that it is committed to upholding its values and principles, regardless of the economic consequences. The EU has been under pressure from some of its member states, particularly those with closer economic ties to China, to take a more conciliatory approach. However, the EU’s statement suggests that it will not compromise on its values.
China has responded to the EU’s statement, saying that it is committed to developing a relationship with the EU based on mutual respect and equality. However, China has been criticized for its human rights record, including its treatment of ethnic minorities in Xinjiang and its crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong.
The EU’s statement comes at a time of increased tension between China and the West, particularly the United States. The US has been critical of China’s trade practices, human rights record, and geopolitical ambitions. The EU has sought to maintain a balanced relationship with China, but it is clear that the EU will not tolerate any violations of international law, human rights, or democratic values.
On this topic, MEP Hilde Vautmans (Open Vld, Belgium), EP standing rapporteur on China and Renew Europe Group’s coordinator in the Foreign Affairs Committee, said:
“This Parliament approved my report on EU-China strategy and was very clear: the EU should be less naive. China is a partner, but also a systemic rival and a competitor. We will not accept Chinese military support for Russia’s war in Ukraine, we will not accept force in the Taiwan Strait, and we cannot ignore human rights violations within China. Now we must act united and not let ourselves be played by China’s divide and rule tactics, as our dependencies on China, for example on critical raw materials, affect our citizens directly.”
On the other hand, Marie-Pierre Vedrenne (L’Europe Ensemble, France), Renew Europe MEP and standing shadow rapporteur on China in the committee on International Trade (INTA) added:
“The strengthening of our trade dependence on China has given it the weapons to challenge our model. Today, Europe is putting an end to its naivety. Thus, we are equipping ourselves with instruments to defend our ambitions and interests. At the same time, we must seek to strengthen our partnerships with those who share our principles, our values, and our ambitions. From now on, it is imperative that we become and act as a strong and autonomous Europe”.
