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EU Shifts from Partner to Competitor Amid China Tensions

9/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The European Union's relationship with China is strained by the US-China rivalry and the war in Ukraine.
The EU now treats China as a competitor rather than an economic partner.
European leaders face dilemmas over trade protectionism, technology transfers, and energy dependency on China.
The rise of far-right forces in Europe complicates responses to China's authoritarian model.

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Story summary

The European Union's relationship with China is strained by the US-China rivalry and the war in Ukraine.
The EU now treats China as a competitor rather than an economic partner.
European leaders face dilemmas over trade protectionism, technology transfers, and energy dependency on China.
The rise of far-right forces in Europe complicates responses to China's authoritarian model.