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EU China Institute Director Visits Beijing as Tensions Ease

5/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Mercator Institute for China Studies director Mikko Huotari traveled to Beijing from July 14 to 17, the institute’s first visit since the EU barred it in March 2021 over Xinjiang sanctions.
China recently relaxed restrictions on several European Parliament members, a step seen as easing tensions before the EU-China summit.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas met in Brussels earlier this month, underscoring engagement before the summit.

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Story summary

Mercator Institute for China Studies director Mikko Huotari traveled to Beijing from July 14 to 17, the institute’s first visit since the EU barred it in March 2021 over Xinjiang sanctions.
China recently relaxed restrictions on several European Parliament members, a step seen as easing tensions before the EU-China summit.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas met in Brussels earlier this month, underscoring engagement before the summit.