Chinese President Xi Jinping has embarked on a major diplomatic journey, undertaking state visits to France, Serbia, and Hungary from May 5 to 10 at the invitation of respective leaders. This high-profile itinerary underscores a shared commitment between China and Europe to recaliberate ties amidst the complexities of an increasingly competitive global landscape.
Xi Jinping’s diplomatic tour through France, Serbia, and Hungary serves a triple purpose, reflecting China’s strategic priorities in Europe. First and foremost, the visits aim to mend strained relations caused by China’s stance on Russia’s actions in Ukraine, demonstrating Beijing’s commitment to stability in the region. Secondly, Xi seeks to counter the European Union’s efforts to bolster economic security measures against China, asserting Beijing’s position in trade and investment cooperation. Lastly, the visit underscores China’s close alliances with Serbia and Hungary, key players in Beijing’s geopolitical strategy.
By showcasing strong partnerships with these nations, China aims to solidify its ties with Central and Eastern Europe, regions increasingly caught in the crosscurrents of global power dynamics. Xi’s tour reflects China’s proactive approach to diplomacy, leveraging economic ties and political alliances.
Despite mounting pressure from Washington urging European nations to reduce their economic ties with China, many countries on the continent remain steadfast in their commitment to bolster trade and investment cooperation with the world’s second-largest economy. Chinese President Xi Jinping’s current tour of Europe serves as a testament to the enduring strength of the Beijing-Brussels relationship and highlights the significance of their economic partnership.
Over the years, China has emerged as one of the European Union’s most vital trading partners. In 2023 alone, China accounted for a substantial 20.5 percent of EU imports of goods, positioning it as the largest import partner for the bloc, followed closely by the USA, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Norway. Additionally, China’s involvement in various infrastructure projects across the continent underscores its deepening economic engagement with Europe. Despite external pressures, these economic ties continue to play a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of global trade and investment.
Both Chinese and European experts view Xi’s visit as an opportunity to explore avenues of cooperation. Xi’s engagements are poised to inject fresh momentum into the trajectory of China-Europe relations, demonstrating the capacity for positive interactions and mutually beneficial collaboration that transcends conventional geopolitical dynamics. As the world grapples with evolving challenges and shifting power dynamics, these diplomatic exchanges serve as a testament to the resilience of international relations and the potential for constructive engagement between China and Europe.
Through dialogue and cooperation, both sides aim to forge a path towards stability and prosperity in an uncertain world. Interestingly, as Xi undertook his voyage through Paris, Belgrade, and Budapest, where his hosts, in a remarkable twist, had all journeyed to China last year. French President Macron, consistent with his pledge to visit China annually during his tenure, made his visit last year. Similarly, Serbian President Vucic and Hungarian Prime Minister Orban were among the prominent attendees at the third Belt and Road International Forum for Cooperation in Beijing last October.
President Xi’s visit is part of a broader trend of high-level engagements between China and the EU this year. In January, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo made his inaugural visit to China, signing a series of cooperation agreements on various fronts like the economy, trade, agriculture, and food. In late March, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte paid a visit to Beijing. Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany followed suit with a visit in April, accompanied by a delegation of federal ministers and business leaders. Looking ahead, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is reportedly gearing up for her visit to China later this year, further underscoring the evolving dynamics of Sino-European relations.
The principles of non-alignment and independence underscore Europe’s approach to its relationship with China, emphasizing that it is not tethered to the whims of any external actor. In this context, President Xi’s visit sends a resounding message: China remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering cooperation with Europe while respecting and upholding the continent’s strategic autonomy.
The intricate web of global supply chains reflects the symbiotic relationship between China and the EU, a dynamic that not only underscores their interdependence but also bolsters global economic stability. China’s robust manufacturing capabilities, for instance, seamlessly complement the EU’s expertise in cutting-edge sectors like aerospace, industrial software, laser technology, and semiconductors, creating a mutually beneficial partnership that drives the smooth functioning of international markets.
Consider China’s pivotal role as a producer of rare earth elements, essential components for the EU’s manufacturing of sophisticated goods such as smartphones, electric vehicles, and advanced computing systems. These materials form the lifeblood of modern technology, highlighting China’s indispensable position in the global tech supply chain. Conversely, the EU’s contribution of high-end technology and equipment plays a crucial role in China’s industrial advancement and infrastructure development endeavors. From state-of-the-art manufacturing machinery to renewable energy technologies and components for high-speed rail, the EU’s offerings fuel innovation and efficiency across China’s sectors, propelling the nation towards greater modernization and competitiveness on the global stage.
Amidst the shifting tides of global geopolitics over the last five years, the bond between China and its three European counterparts – France, Serbia and Hungary – has endured, guided by the steady hand of state leadership.
President Xi Jinping’s visit to these nations heralds a new chapter in their collective narrative, symbolizing not only deepening bilateral ties but also the broader trajectory of China-Europe relations. Indeed, the landscape of China-Europe relations has been marked by ebbs and flows in recent years, influenced by global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Against this backdrop, Europe finds itself navigating a delicate balancing act, as the United States intensifies its efforts to court the continent while designating China as its foremost competitor. Despite these complexities, the EU’s commitment to maintaining strategic autonomy emerges as a crucial litmus test.
The principles of non-alignment and independence underscore Europe’s approach to its relationship with China, emphasizing that it is not tethered to the whims of any external actor. In this context, President Xi’s visit sends a resounding message: China remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering cooperation with Europe while respecting and upholding the continent’s strategic autonomy.
