Chinese President Xi Jinping declined to attend the EU-China 50th anniversary summit in Brussels, with Premier Li Qiang to represent China. Ongoing discussions regarding the summit’s timing and representation reflect existing tensions over trade issues, including tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has turned down an invitation to attend a summit in Brussels that commemorates the 50th anniversary of EU-China diplomatic relations, as reported by the Financial Times. Instead, Beijing has proposed Chinese Premier Li Qiang to engage with the presidents of the European Council and Commission. Traditionally, the Chinese premier attends when the summit occurs in Brussels, whereas the president hosts it in Beijing.
The EU expresses its desire for President Xi to participate in the anniversary event, recognizing the significance of acknowledging five decades of relations with China. An EU official indicated, “Informal discussions are ongoing, both about setting the date for the EU-China summit this year and the level of representation,” while the Chinese ministry stated that no further information could be provided on the topic.
In 2024, tensions between China, the world’s second-largest economy, and the EU, its third-largest trading partner, have been evident, particularly concerning allegations of overcapacity, illegal subsidies, and dumping in respective markets. Following an anti-subsidy investigation, the EU enforced double-digit tariffs on electric vehicles manufactured in China, in addition to a standard 10% car import duty. This prompted strong objections from Beijing, which retaliated by imposing entry barriers on specific EU products, including brandy.
In summary, President Xi’s refusal to attend the EU-China anniversary summit raises questions about diplomatic relations as Premier Li Qiang will represent China instead. The ongoing discussions regarding the summit’s timing and representation reflect the complexities of EU-China relations amid existing trade tensions. Both parties continue to navigate a landscape marked by disputes over trade practices and market access.
Original Source: al24news.com
