The sharp remarks that emphasized deep tensions in the relationship between the EU and China were at the beginning of the summit commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations between the parties on Thursday.
The chairwoman of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and chairman of the European Council Antonio Costa went to Beijing for a meeting with XI Jinping, who rejected the invitation to Brussels for this ceremony.
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EU and China “reached a turning point” in their relations Von der Leyen said in her speech opening the meeting in Beijing. “With the deepening of our cooperation, unevenness also deepens,” she added and said that “it is extremely important that China and Europe recognize their fears and present real solutions.”
Costa also drew attention to the imbalance in economic relations. “We need specific progress in matters related to trade and economy. Both sides want our relations to be balanced, mutual and beneficial to both sides,” he said. He also criticized Beijing for the role he played in Russia's full invasion of Ukraine.
“As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, we call China to use our own influence on Russiathat she would observe the United Nations Cards and end the aggressive war against Ukraine, “said Costa.
Last week, the EU placed two Chinese banks on the list of sanctions against Russia, which prompted Beijing to express “deep dissatisfaction and strong opposition to” against this “gross” move.
XI in his speech agreed that the relations between the EU and China are in “Critical moment”. He described Beijing and Brussels as “two great players” who must “” make the right strategic choices that meet the expectations of citizens and withstand history. “
“China and Europe should strengthen communication, strengthen mutual trust and deepen cooperation, providing the world with greater stability and confidence,” he said.
EU representatives will conduct talks on Thursday with XI, and also meet with the prime minister of China Li Qiang.
