EU-China Monthly Report: August 2020
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Monthly EU-China Report!
July saw the continuation of the trends that we have been following over the last few months within the EU-China relations. Brussels has further securitized relations with Beijing as the EU has been shaping its responses to the new Hong Kong National Security Law and to Huawei’s involvement in European markets. In the course of this, the European capitals have been placing greater emphasis on “systemic rivalry” and enhancing coordination on China. However, we are still far from seeing a coherent European China policy.
At the same time, throughout July, the EU has been trying to maintain a delicate balance between Beijing and Washington as the tensions between the two have been intensifying. Washington’s new “free world vs. China” campaign has caused quite a commotion, adding to the negative outlook in global affairs. The EU continues to emphasize its alignment with the US in terms of shared values and assessment of China, but it disagrees with Washington’s methods. This is consistent with the logic of the EU’s so-called “Sinatra Doctrine,” in which the EU protects and promotes its own interests and values amidst the Sino-American competition by finding a delicate balance between the two superpowers.
There have also been new developments in the CAI negotiations. The discussions held during the 8th High-level Economic and Trade Dialogue are likely the last possible chance of concluding the negotiations in 2020, and reflect the EU’s growing impatience towards China. Success on this front could provide momentum to counter the worsening of the EU-China relations.
As we enter August, we look forward to monitoring and analyzing the build-up to a high-level videoconference between President Charles Michel, President von der Leyen, Chancellor Angela Merkel, and President Xi Jinping on September 14th.
In the meantime, we wish you a delightful summer period and hope to see you here next month!
Enjoy and stay safe!
Grzegorz Stec
Founder of EU-China Hub