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Finland Threatens EU-China Trade Talks Over Russia Ties

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Finland may block any EU-China free-trade talks because Beijing’s partnership with Moscow is a disqualifying factor.
Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said the China-Russia ties prevent the EU from starting trade-deal negotiations in an interview with the South China Morning Post inside Finland’s Parliament House.
China has proposed a trade or investment agreement with the EU.
No formal EU-China talks have begun because all 27 member states must approve any launch.

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Story summary

Finland may block any EU-China free-trade talks because Beijing’s partnership with Moscow is a disqualifying factor.
Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said the China-Russia ties prevent the EU from starting trade-deal negotiations in an interview with the South China Morning Post inside Finland’s Parliament House.
China has proposed a trade or investment agreement with the EU.
No formal EU-China talks have begun because all 27 member states must approve any launch.