The EU cannot cut (economic) ties with China, but it can limit its dependence so that it does not find itself in an extremely difficult position again, as happened after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Disengagement from China is not even an option for European Union businesses. At least this is what Valdis Dombrovskis – the vice-president of the Commission – claimed, recognizing the importance of the emerging superpower for Europe. There is intense concern in the EU, as the China case looks like a Gordian Link for Europeans.
The truth is that the Europeans follow a different line compared to the USA towards the “dragon” of the East. So far, they are resisting Joe Biden’s pressure for a more aggressive stance at all levels – as Emmanuel Macron has repeatedly stated.
Nevertheless, they seem to have realized that things cannot continue as they are. Especially after the “affair” with Russia – which for the Germans was particularly painful – which is largely (though not exclusively) responsible for the unprecedented energy crisis and the coming economic recession.
The new bilateral relationship – which, to a large extent, will also seal the EU’s stance – must be based on three pillars:
1. to greater reciprocity in terms of investment rules, so that there is a level playing field.
2. the review of the framework of state aid to Chinese companies operating in Europe.
3. the lower dependence of the German economy on China.
Experience, of course, has taught that very often, life comes to make rags and toss into the wastebasket any plans on paper. Something that will obviously be repeated in the event of a war in the Pacific – for example in Taiwan – in which the US becomes involved, forcing Europe to take a stand and blow up its economic interests.
