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During the EU-China Summit, President Ursula von der Leyen and President António Costa met with Chinas President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang to discuss trade and global challenges, especially climate change. They addressed the 50th anniversary of EU-China diplomatic relations.
President von der Leyen emphasized the EUs commitment to achieving a more balanced trade relationship, stating, ‘As our cooperation has deepened, so have the imbalances. We have reached an inflexion point. Rebalancing our bilateral relation is essential.
The EU is Chinas largest trading partner, and China is the EUs third largest. In her discussions, she noted, ‘Rebalancing is necessary for a stronger relationship. We must increase market access for European companies in China and find negotiated solutions.
Three key priorities emerged: reciprocity, addressing overcapacity in China, and export controls on rare earth materials. Both sides agreed to improve cooperation on these issues.
President von der Leyen praised EU-China collaboration on climate, noting a joint commitment to a sustainable future. She concluded, ‘Despite our differences, we can find pragmatic solutions. We are ready to enhance cooperation for a balanced relationship in the next 50 years.
More information:
Opening remarks by President von der Leyen with President Costa and Xi Jinping
Opening remarks with President Costa and Premier Li Qiang at the EU-China Summit
Statement by President von der Leyen with President Costa following the Summit
Joint EU-China press statement on climate