China, Europe and the others

This is the wrong time to behave like a bully in the international arena. The Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, seems to know it. He appealed for a better relationship between his country and the US, now that we are at the door of a new Cold War, to paraphrase what he said. The words that call for cooperation instead of competition are the right words. He for sure is aware of that. And I am sure he is also mindful that for the time being the relationship with the US will not improve. Actually, it is possible to forecast deterioration. That is certainly not good. But he and his fellow leaders in Beijing have a chance to show that they mean business. They can establish a better relationship with the European Union. The Europeans are ready for that if it is a more balanced and equal one. Let us see if the Chinese are also willing. That could have an incredibly positive influence on the trade, global affairs, and the image of China in the world. There are negotiations going on between Brussels and Beijing. They should be concluded by September and send the right signal.