Mutual respect and dialogue can foster stronger cooperation between the EU and China

The post-World War II global order has undergone significant changes since the beginning of the 21st century, with the collective rise of the Global South being a notable factor. A further consideration is, of course, the United States’ changing perception of its position and role on the global stage. This issue encompasses both economic and political aspects, as well as the US’ role in the international security system.

At the beginning of the 21st century, the US administration began to reorient its security policy and related priorities from Europe to the “Indo-Pacific” region. This decision was motivated by what it perceived to be increasing threats to its interests in the area.

The changed priorities of the US have been clearly defined during the second presidential term of Donald Trump, which boil down to protecting the interests of the US, regardless of what is required to do so. The US has consistently emphasized that it considers China to be the US’ primary economic competitor. The US is determined to win the competition with China, regardless of the costs incurred by other parties, including its current European partners. This approach effectively involves a policy of blackmail and coercion, targeting individual countries and the European Union as a whole regarding their political and economic relations with China.

The US is employing every possible means to pressure the EU to maintain the US’ leading position in a world that has undergone a profound transformation, contrary to the EU’s wishes.

China has evolved beyond its role as a manufacturing hub for US and European companies to become a leader in many key economic sectors. This transformation is the result of the deliberate, pragmatic policies of the Chinese leadership. China has developed some advanced technologies and has become a major player in the global economy.

A significant proportion of Western leaders are mentally rooted in a bygone era, failing to comprehend or unwilling to acknowledge the development of contemporary and modern China as a global phenomenon.

The EU, which, through its far-sighted political vision, initiated a policy of sustainable development and climate action at the end of the 20th century, fell behind in terms of technological advancement and green energy productivity in the third decade of the 21st century. China has become a leader in these areas not by chance, but through foresighted decisions. A prime example of this is the development of green energy, including solar and wind power, as well as hydrogen technologies and energy storage solutions. Another example is the electric vehicle industry, which is closely linked to the production of batteries and energy storage systems.

China can serve as an example for the world, including many other Global South countries and some European countries, in modern transportation infrastructure, with advancements in high-speed rail and maglev technology as prime examples. In some European countries, the railway infrastructure is underinvested and outdated. Meanwhile, European industry lobbying groups and some policymakers have been attempting to block Chinese companies from having access to the European rail market. This will contribute to the infrastructure gap between Europe and China, as well as between other countries that cooperate with China in this area.

Looking at the bigger picture, the global economy is undergoing restructuring, which is also influenced by the US’ actions paralyzing the World Trade Organization. This can be most accurately described as a deliberate obstruction of the system. Initially, the primary pressure stemmed from China’s participation in the WTO. At present, as China has emerged as a leader in many areas, the US is trying to dismantle the existing trade system. The tariff and customs policy implemented by the US has had a significant impact on both China and Europe.

Europe is facing significant challenges in modern technologies, particularly in artificial intelligence, where it is in direct competition with both the US and China. In light of the unpredictable nature of the US administration, Europe may find it advantageous to strengthen its cooperation with China across trade, investment, technology and environmental development, while maintaining its own values.

The EU and its leaders should take note of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30), which emphasizes technological innovation and high-quality development, as well as delivering “China’s contribution to building a community with a shared future for humanity”. China has demonstrated its determination to maintain a high standard of openness, continue to share the benefits of its vast market with the rest of the world, and lead the global trend toward transparency and cooperation to counter the risks of deglobalization. The country has also made clear its willingness to work with other countries to overcome challenges and share opportunities. In this sense, Europe can explore its long-term competitiveness through mutually beneficial cooperation with China during the restructuring of the global economy. In the spirit of dialogue and mutual understanding, the EU and China should strive to collaborate. Mutual respect is key to the prosperity of both sides.

The author is a professor at the Faculty of Political Science and Journalism at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Poland.

The author contributed this article to China Watch, a think tank powered by China Daily. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

Contact the editor at editor@chinawatch.cn.