Scholars in Oxford are concerned about the growing trend in the West of increased reluctance to engage with China. How can China find common ground with European countries, including the UK, and collaborate to address political and industrial conflicts? China must take urgent steps to establish a more equitable power balance that benefits its interests in the current geopolitical climate.
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China rejects Nato claim of being ‘decisive enabler’ of Russia in Ukraine war
China rejects Nato claim of being ‘decisive enabler’ of Russia in Ukraine war
First, China must address the deep-seated suspicions of the West arising from China’s position on the Russian invasion of Ukraine and do a better job of rationalising its response and explaining its position. China needs to clarify that the international order established after World War II should be kept intact and that it does not support Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian land.
At the same time, China should point out that Nato violated the territorial integrity of Serbia by supporting Kosovo’s separatist movement, setting a bad precedent for Russia’s military actions in Ukraine.Furthermore, Nato’s intention to extend its influence in the Asia-Pacific will only harden China’s position towards Europe. China and India have pursued similar bilateral approaches towards Russia during the Ukraine war. Both have continued to trade with Russia and distance themselves from the West’s sanctions. China should question why Europe has double standards towards India when it comes to its relationship with Russia.Secondly, China must continue to open its economy and launch a charm offensive. China also needs to address concerns that economic cooperation has only benefited itself, at Europe’s expense.It is important to note that China has embraced globalisation as a strategic policy. While China needs to showcase its commitment to being open to the West, it is equally important for Europeans to understand that China’s investment in Europe will benefit both sides. They must remain committed to free trade and opposed to protectionism. Dialogue and consultation are crucial in resolving trade issues and safeguarding economic cooperation.
This is evident when it comes to the issue of EU tariffs on China’s electric vehicles. German carmakers have strongly opposed the move, showing the importance of China’s market to foreign companies. By ensuring fair treatment for all companies in its market, China can build trust and foster stronger relationships with foreign partners. This will not only benefit China’s economy but also promote mutual benefits and cooperation on a global scale.
However, China should not underestimate Europe’s strong intention to de-risk from China. Even Germany, which has one of the strongest economic relationships with China within the EU, has adapted its China strategy and urged companies to reduce their reliance on the country. As a result, the US has overtaken China as Germany’s biggest trading partner in the first quarter of 2024.
As pointed out by an Oxford professor, mistrust between the West and China is prevalent. This growing mistrust and suspicion may lead to decoupling, which would have far-reaching implications for trade, diplomacy and global power dynamics between Europe and China.
Ningrong Liu is associate vice-president at the University of Hong Kong, and the founding director of HKU Institute for China Business
Source link : https://amp.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3270802/3-steps-china-can-take-fix-ties-european-countries
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Publish date : 2024-07-19 21:30:11
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