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EU-China Relations Post-2024 Elections: New Dynamics Unveiled

Source: EU-China Relations After the 2024 European Elections: A Timeline (2025-11-26)

Following the 2024 European Parliament elections, EU-China relations are entering a transformative phase characterized by political shifts, economic recalibrations, and strategic realignments. The elections, held in early June 2024, resulted in a notable decline for centrist parties and a rise in far-right factions such as the Identity and Democracy (ID) and European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR). This political realignment is influencing the EU’s approach to China, leading to more nuanced and sometimes conflicting policies. Historically, the EU has maintained a cautious stance towards China, emphasizing a complex relationship of partnership, competition, and systemic rivalry, as outlined in the 2019 EU-China Strategic Outlook. However, recent developments signal a significant shift in tone and strategy, driven by geopolitical tensions, economic dependencies, and technological competition. In the latest developments, the European Commission has adopted a more assertive posture towards China, emphasizing the need to safeguard European technological sovereignty and address human rights concerns. The European Parliament’s increased support for measures targeting Chinese investments in critical infrastructure reflects a broader push for strategic autonomy. Meanwhile, China’s response to these evolving EU policies has been multifaceted, involving diplomatic engagement, economic negotiations, and efforts to counterbalance Western influence through initiatives like the Belt and Road. Recent facts that deepen understanding of this evolving relationship include: 1. The EU’s new Indo-Pacific Strategy, announced in late 2024, explicitly mentions China as a key partner and competitor, aiming to balance engagement with strategic caution. 2. China’s economic growth slowed to 4.2% in 2025, partly due to increased EU tariffs and export restrictions, impacting bilateral trade volumes. 3. The EU has increased investments in green technology and renewable energy projects in China, signaling a shift towards sustainable cooperation despite geopolitical tensions. 4. The European Parliament passed a resolution in October 2025 urging member states to diversify supply chains away from China, emphasizing resilience and security. 5. China launched a new digital infrastructure initiative in Africa and Southeast Asia, aiming to expand its influence amid EU and US strategic competition. 6. The EU-China Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI), stalled since 2020, remains a contentious issue, with renewed calls for reform and transparency from EU policymakers. 7. The European Court of Justice is reviewing cases related to Chinese state subsidies, which could influence future trade policies and anti-dumping measures. 8. Both the EU and China are actively participating in multilateral forums like the G20 and BRICS, seeking to shape global governance amid shifting power dynamics. 9. The EU’s recent cybersecurity legislation aims to counter Chinese cyber espionage activities, reflecting growing concerns over digital sovereignty. 10. Public opinion in Europe remains divided, with surveys indicating increasing skepticism about China’s strategic intentions, especially among younger populations. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, EU-China relations are likely to remain complex and multifaceted. The recent elections have catalyzed a shift towards a more cautious and strategic approach, balancing economic interests with security concerns. Policymakers across Europe are now navigating a delicate path—seeking to maintain economic ties with China while safeguarding European values and strategic autonomy. This dynamic will shape global trade, technology development, and diplomatic relations in the coming years, making it essential for businesses, governments, and analysts to stay informed about ongoing developments. The future of EU-China relations hinges on how both sides manage their differences and capitalize on areas of mutual interest, such as climate change, digital innovation, and global health. As the world watches, Europe’s post-election strategy will be pivotal in defining the next chapter of international cooperation and rivalry in the 21st century.

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