The summit call that took place today between the EU leaders and President Xi revealed a gulf of differences between the two sides when it comes to political values and the interference of the State in the economy. On the European side, reference was made to human rights as a fundamental value, as well as to the Chinese leadership’s policies towards the Uighur minority, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. President Xi did not like what he heard. But he could notice that the Europeans consider these matters fundamental and will continue to be raised in the future. At the same time, the economic relationship between both sides will continue – the trade between them amounts to one billion euros a day. And on this matter, the key issues will remain and must be addressed. The Chinese must open up to European investment and cease all kinds of political meddling in the governance of European firms already operating in China.
In
the meantime, and as we wait for progress on these fronts to be achieved it is becoming
clear that Chinese investments in critical European infrastructure can only be
accepted if they do not put at stake the strategic dimensions of European
security and stability.
The
two sides must cooperate. They are key players in the international scene. It
is therefore important they keep talking and be frank when doing it.
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