A senior European Union official has suggested strengthening trade ties with China to counter potential economic challenges from President Trump’s proposed US tariffs. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said European businesses, concerned about rising costs from these tariffs, might find relief in closer economic cooperation with China.
As global changes and uncertainties increase, risks of division and instability grow. In this context, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, said the relationship between China and the EU holds greater strategic and global importance. Lin emphasized that both sides could reach agreements to expand trade and investment.
China views the European Union as a key strategic partner and an independent force in a multipolar world, expressing hope that the EU will continue to be a reliable cooperation partner. Lin’s comments followed von der Leyen’s acknowledgement that there is room to strengthen ties with Beijing, even amid heightened geopolitical competition.
Von der Leyen stressed the importance of balancing economic independence with pragmatic engagement. “We have been working to reduce risks in our economic relationship. At the same time, ” there is space for constructive engagement with China to find mutually beneficial solutions,” she said during a speech in Brussels, as the Global Times reported.
She expressed confidence that agreements with China could lead to a fairer, more balanced partnership with one of the world’s largest economies, ultimately benefiting Europe.
European Union Facing Tariffs
On Sunday, Trump warned that tariffs targeting the European Union would “definitely happen,” though no specific timeline was provided, according to The Guardian. This announcement followed his decision to impose tariffs on Canadian, Mexican, and Chinese goods.
The European Union has stated its readiness for tough negotiations to prevent a trade conflict, with von der Leyen reiterating this stance a day after Canada and Mexico reached temporary agreements with the US.
This is not the first time von der Leyen has struck a more measured tone on China. Speaking at the World Economic Forum on January 21, she highlighted challenges posed by China’s economic practices and expressed interest in deepening ties.
Experts suggest her approach is a strategic adjustment rather than a policy overhaul, reflecting Europe’s attempts to manage relations with China and the US.
Despite these remarks, the European Union continues to take a cautious stance. According to a draft document seen by Reuters, plans are underway to increase customs checks on goods shipped by Chinese e-commerce companies like Temu and Shein. Meanwhile, EU trade official Maroš Šefčovič recently indicated a willingness to partner with the US to address economic challenges linked to China’s growing influence, POLITICO reported.
Cui Hongjian, a Beijing Foreign Studies University expert, observed that von der Leyen’s statements signal a dual message. To the US, they highlight Europe’s interest in leveraging ties with China as a counterbalance. To China, they suggest there are still opportunities for meaningful cooperation. Cui believes the friction between the US and Europe could prompt the European Union to reassess its strategy, potentially opening doors for closer ties with China in areas like artificial intelligence.
While Europe aims to reduce risks in its dealings with China, Cui argues that collaboration remains the most practical and beneficial path forward. However, how much Europe can capitalize on this opportunity depends on its ability to navigate the challenges posed by US policies and maintain a balanced approach.
