Europe is grappling with how to navigate its relationship with China amidst the US-China competition. The lack of a coherent strategy is evident as European countries struggle to agree with each other on how to handle China. While some leaders, like Germany’s Olaf Scholz and Spain’s Pedro Sánchez, have sought to strengthen trade ties with China, others, like France’s Emmanuel Macron, have tried to distance themselves from Sino-American tensions. The war in Ukraine has also further complicated matters, with countries on the EU’s eastern flank becoming more hawkish towards China.
One of the main challenges in finding common ground among European countries is the uncertainty surrounding America’s stance on China. While President Joe Biden’s administration has distanced itself from the idea of decoupling, favoring a strategy of de-risking, tensions between the US and China remain high. Congress and public opinion in America are generally hostile towards China, and these tensions could rise further during the 2024 election campaign.
The lack of a clear plan is evident in the recent visits of European leaders to Beijing. Germany’s Olaf Scholz and his foreign minister, from a different political party, had differing tones in their visits. Spain’s prime minister sought to open doors for trade, while France’s Emmanuel Macron tried to strike a partnership with Xi Jinping and distance Europe from Sino-American tensions. Macron’s comments caused controversy in both Europe and America.
The war in Ukraine has also played a role in shaping Europe’s approach to China. Many countries on the EU’s eastern flank, which once welcomed Chinese investors, have become more cautious and hawkish towards China. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has made these countries wary of the close friendship between Moscow and Beijing and has shifted their attitudes towards China.
Overall, Europe is struggling to find a unified approach to China. The lack of clarity in America’s stance and the tensions between the US and China make it difficult for European countries to align themselves. The war in Ukraine has further complicated matters, with some countries becoming more cautious towards China. Finding common ground and a coherent strategy remains a challenge for Europe in its approach to China.
