Global Times today published a round-up of the rapidly expanding diplomatic cooperation between China and the EU, spurred on by the multilateral tariffs imposed by the Trump Administration. Chinese Premier Li Qiang held a phone call with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on April 8, saying that China is ready to work with the European side to “promote the sound and steady development of China-EU relations,” according to Xinhua.
Li said that China-EU relations are showing a momentum of steady growth. This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the EU, and the development of bilateral relations faces important opportunities, he said. Li pointed out that the U.S. has recently announced indiscriminate tariffs on all its trading partners, including China and the EU, under various pretexts, which he called a typical case of unilateralism, protectionism. and economic bullying.
Noting that the EU always attaches great importance to its relations with China, von der Leyen said it is crucial for EU-China relations to “maintain continuity and stability under current circumstances.” She noted that the tariffs imposed by the United States have severely impacted international trade, causing a serious impact on Europe, China and vulnerable countries.
Other visits are in the works:
