Xi Jinping Urges Stronger EU Ties Amid Growing Trade Tensions
Beijing, July 25, 2025 — Chinese President Xi Jinping called for deepened cooperation with the European Union during the 25th EU-China Summit in Beijing, emphasizing the need for strategic partnership and open markets at a time of increasing trade tensions between the two economic powers.
A Pivotal Moment in EU-China Relations
The summit, held to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, brought together President Xi, Premier Li Qiang, and senior EU leaders including Council President António Costa and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The gathering took place against a backdrop of complex geopolitical challenges and economic disputes, underscoring the delicate nature of the relationship.
While originally scheduled as a two-day event, the summit was shortened to one day, reflecting underlying strains and the urgency of the discussions. Ursula von der Leyen described the current EU-China dynamic as a “clear inflection point,” highlighting the urgency for both sides to address trade imbalances and political divergences that threaten the long-term stability of their partnership.
Trade Tensions and Calls for Reciprocity
The EU has expressed growing concerns about a significant trade deficit, which reached €306 billion in goods last year. Key issues include China’s industrial overcapacity, state subsidies particularly in the electric vehicle sector, and restrictions on market access for European companies. Export controls on critical raw materials such as rare earth elements and retaliatory measures targeting European agricultural products have further strained ties.
European leaders pressed China to improve transparency, lift export restrictions, and create a level playing field for EU firms. “Reciprocity and market openness are fundamental to a balanced and sustainable economic relationship,” von der Leyen emphasized.
Xi’s Appeal for Strategic Choices and Open Markets
In response, President Xi urged European counterparts to resist protectionist tendencies and avoid decoupling strategies. He stressed that challenges faced by Europe do not originate from China and called on both sides to maintain open markets and deepen mutual trust.
Xi highlighted the importance of making “correct strategic choices” to avoid misunderstandings and miscalculations, framing the partnership as essential for global stability amid an increasingly uncertain international landscape.
Shared Commitment to Climate Action
Despite the tensions, the summit saw agreement on several important fronts, most notably in climate change. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to the Paris Agreement and pledged to collaborate on reducing methane emissions, enhancing carbon markets, and advancing green finance and biodiversity conservation ahead of COP30.
This shared dedication to environmental goals offers a positive foundation for cooperation, even as broader economic and geopolitical disagreements remain unresolved.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
The EU-China relationship remains multifaceted, with China viewed both as a strategic partner and a systemic rival. The summit underscored the need for continued dialogue and pragmatic engagement, even as structural differences persist.
European officials and Chinese leaders alike signaled a willingness to continue working toward solutions, recognizing that stability in their economic ties is crucial not only for their own regions but for the broader global economy.
Conclusion
As trade tensions persist, the call from President Xi Jinping for stronger EU-China ties reflects a strategic desire to navigate a complex global environment through cooperation rather than confrontation. The road ahead will require balancing economic interests with political realities, and fostering a partnership based on trust, fairness, and shared global responsibilities.
