The only possible policy with China is to look them in the eye

The only possible policy with China is to look them in the eye, the EPP Group Members insist, following the vote in the Foreign Affairs Committee on the recommendation on EU-China political relations. The Group insists, among other things, that Chinese authorities respect international rules and stop helping Russia in its war against Ukraine. 

"Europe needs a clear-eyed and confident approach to China. Cooperation remains necessary, but it must go hand in hand with genuine reciprocity, fair competition and respect for international commitments. The EU must be ready to defend its economic security and strategic interests whenever these principles are not respected," says Nicolás Pascual de la Parte MEP, EPP Group spokesperson on China in the Foreign Affairs Committee.

According to the MEPs, EU-China relations have reached a critical point, particularly over China’s unfair economic practices, including dumping, as well as espionage and its position on Russia’s war against Ukraine. "Our relationship with China cannot be separated from Europe’s security. Beijing’s choices have consequences, particularly when they contribute to sustaining Russia’s war effort against Ukraine or challenge the rules-based international order. Europe should engage with China where our interests converge, compete where necessary, and act decisively to protect our security, our values, and our strategic autonomy," adds Pascual de la Parte.

At the same time, China’s domestic and international policies have narrowed the space for partnership while increasing competition with the EU and other democracies, pushing relations towards systemic rivalry. "Dialogue between the EU and China is important to address bilateral and global challenges, but rightly so the EU's approach must fully consider China's behaviour domestically and in the international arena," notes Michael Gahler MEP and EPP Group spokesperson for Foreign Affairs. "China, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, certainly has to meet its obligations and responsibilities, uphold a rules-based international order and support multilateralism. It is important that China is urged to immediately cease all forms of assistance to Russia and stop contributing to the prolongation of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. The recommendation voted today also underlines the strategic importance of closer EU ties with Taiwan and advocates stronger cooperation with like-minded partners, including Japan and South Korea," concludes Gahler.