Chinese President Xi Jinping has declined to attend the EU-China summit marking 50 years of diplomatic ties, with Premier Li Qiang set to represent China instead. Discussions are ongoing regarding the summit’s date and representation. The relationship has been fraught with trade tensions, particularly related to tariffs and market barriers.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has declined an invitation to attend a summit in Brussels commemorating the 50th anniversary of EU-China diplomatic relations, as reported by the Financial Times. Instead, the Chinese government has indicated that Premier Li Qiang will represent China in discussions with the presidents of the European Council and Commission.
Traditionally, the Chinese premier participates in the summit when held in Brussels, whereas the president presides over the event in Beijing. The European Union sought President Xi’s presence to celebrate this significant milestone in their relationship. An EU official remarked, “Informal discussions are ongoing, both about setting the date for the EU-China summit this year and the level of representation.” Meanwhile, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs refrained from providing specific information regarding the summit.
The economic interactions between China, the world’s second-largest economy, and the EU, the third-largest, have been marked by tensions over various trade issues throughout 2024. This includes disputes involving allegations of overcapacity, illegal subsidies, and dumping practices in each other’s markets, which have heightened trade friction.
In October, the EU enacted double-digit tariffs on electric vehicles manufactured in China following an anti-subsidy investigation, in addition to the standard 10% import duty on cars. This decision prompted significant backlash from Beijing, leading to increased market entry barriers for select EU products such as brandy in retaliation.
In summary, President Xi Jinping’s refusal to attend the EU-China summit highlights ongoing tensions between the two powers. Premier Li Qiang’s representation signifies a shift in diplomatic engagement for this anniversary. The backdrop of trade disputes and tariffs underscores the complexity of the relationship as both sides navigate their economic interactions.
Original Source: al24news.com
