Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

European Leaders Shift Focus: Strengthening Ties with China

3/26/2025

25 2

Left

Europe Engages China

European leaders, including Italy's Senate President and Portugal's Foreign Minister, are making frequent trips to China, marking a significant shift in Europe’s strategy amidst US dominance. Nations like Spain and Portugal are eager to forge stronger connections with China, aiming to bolster their economies and assert greater diplomatic autonomy on the global stage.

Center

Šefcovic Strengthens Ties

In a bold move, EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefcovic journeyed to China, seeking to fortify connections as US tariffs rise. His mission: to send a message to Washington, revive diplomatic talks, tackle China's overproduction, ease access for European businesses, and lure Chinese investments. This visit underscores the EU's delicate dance of diplomacy between the US and China.

History

Historical Context

European leaders are increasingly engaging with China, reflecting a shift from US-centric diplomacy. This mirrors past trends, such as the 1970s rapprochement between the US and China, which altered global power dynamics. Today, as the EU seeks economic ties with China amidst rising US tariffs, it echoes earlier efforts to balance power and assert autonomy in a multipolar world.

1 of 3

Europe Engages China

European leaders, including Italy's Senate President and Portugal's Foreign Minister, are making frequent trips to China, marking a significant shift in Europe’s strategy amidst US dominance. Nations like Spain and Portugal are eager to forge stronger connections with China, aiming to bolster their economies and assert greater diplomatic autonomy on the global stage.

1 / 3