Asia Government and Politics Correspondent Rebecca Choong Wilkins discusses China's President Xi Jinping's recent visit to Europe, focusing on strategic relationships and trade tensions. They delve into China's efforts to maintain positive relations with Europe amidst increasing tensions, analyzing Beijing's subsidies and trade practices, and exploring the complex dynamics of EU-China relations and concerns about the future.
Xi Jinping aims to strengthen EU-China relations amidst increasing EU-US alignment.
China strategically targets countries like Hungary and Serbia to expand influence in Europe.
Deep dives
Xi Jinping's European Tour: Strategic Goals and Country Selection
China's President Xi Jinping embarked on a strategic European tour, including visits to France, Hungary, and Serbia. Xi's goal was to navigate the increasing alignment between the European Union and the US on trade investigations, aiming to distance the EU from US policies. The selection of countries like France, Hungary, and Serbia showcased Xi's interest in nations with varying degrees of independence from the EU, with Hungary and Serbia being more aligned with China geopolitically.
EU-China Relations: Charm Offensive and Concerns
Xi Jinping's visit to Europe can be perceived as a charm offensive to maintain positive EU-China relations amidst tensions and trade probes. While China seeks to influence EU policies and secure trade channels, there are concerns about potential tariffs and strained relations leading to a closer EU-US alignment. Although full decoupling is seen as challenging due to economic interconnectedness, high tariffs on key sectors could impact China's growth strategies.
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China's President Xi Jinping's European Tour and Strategic Relationships
China's President Xi Jinping came to Europe with promises of investment and greater cooperation, but also an eye on rising trade tensions with the EU. What was Xi's goal on this trip? In this episode of Here's Why, we examine why China needs Europe right now with our Asia Government and Politics Correspondent Rebecca Choong Wilkins. Hosted by Stephen Carroll, produced by Christopher Pitt and James Woolcock.