Sinica Podcast

The EU-China Relationship in the Age of Trumpian Disruption, with Finbarr Bermingham of the SCMP

9 snips
Apr 29, 2025
Finbarr Bermingham, Senior Europe Correspondent for the South China Morning Post, brings insightful analysis to the evolving EU-China relationship from Brussels. He discusses the impact of sanctions and diverging EU member state interests, emphasizing the shifting dynamics prompted by U.S. policies. Bermingham highlights China's diplomatic approach and the complexities of Europe’s dual strategy. Additionally, he reflects on personal experiences from his upbringing in Northern Ireland, adding depth to the geopolitical discussion.
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INSIGHT

Pre-Trump EU-China Tensions

  • EU-China relations before Trump's 2025 return were tense and cautious, with a pause but no real recalibration.
  • The 2021 sanctions and COVID diplomacy worsened ties, while the expected trade war froze talks.
INSIGHT

Divergent EU Views on China

  • EU member states show divergent approaches to China, with Germany pro-engagement and some others like Hungary acting as spoilers.
  • Historical incidents, like Taiwan and Cyprus relations, complicate EU unity on China issues.
INSIGHT

CAI's Symbolic Importance

  • China's Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI) was symbolically important but not a deep economic breakthrough.
  • The deal's future remains uncertain due to political fractures and global developments since 2020.
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