In this episode of the ChinaPower Podcast, Meia Nouwens and Veerle Nouwens join us to unpack the relationship between European countries and China. They begin with an overview of Europe’s relations with China, caveating that the relationship at large is similar, but different countries vary in their approaches to China. Meia explains that European views of China are shifting from seeing it as a potential partner to more of a competitor or systemic rival. Veerle also emphasizes that while European countries and Taiwan have maintained trade relations for years, China has grown more critical of these dialogues, and it is increasingly important for Europe to have clear and consistent messaging about its views on Taiwan. Lastly, they identify important factors that may impact the future of China-Europe relations, including U.S. policy towards China and China’s behavior itself.
Keyword:China-EU Relations
Europe and China as Partners or Rivals?: A Conversation with Mikko Huotari
In this episode, Dr. Mikko Huotari joins us to discuss the evolving relationship between Europe and China. He highlights the multifaceted relationship between China and the European Union, noting that the EU has labeled China as both a strategic partner and a systemic rival. Dr. Huotari argues that while the coronavirus has been a driver of recent tensions in the Europe-China relationship, there has been a longer-term negative trend of worsening ties and a lack of progress on policy agendas between the EU and China. Dr. Huotari also evaluates the evolution of European sentiment towards China, security issues regarding China, and assesses the prospect for greater transatlantic cooperation between the United States and Europe on China policy.
Strategic Shift Underway in UK Relations with China: A Conversation with Charles Parton
In this episode, Charles Parton joins us to discuss China’s evolving relationship with the United Kingdom following the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union. Mr. Parton examines how the UK’s strategic thought toward China has changed over the past decade, and describes how London has only recently awoken to the potential threat China poses to its interests. He also offers insights into what an effective UK approach toward China could look like going forward and outlines steps the UK could take to develop a China strategy that safeguards the UK’s national interests.
Mounting Tensions Between China and Sweden: A Conversation with The Honorable Carl Bildt
In this episode, The Honorable Carl Bildt joins us to discuss the deterioration of China-Sweden relations in recent years, as well as changing attitudes in Sweden toward China. Mr. Bildt explains the extent to which Sweden is economically dependent on China, and how it has worked to counter Chinese pressure and interference. He also discusses ongoing diplomatic disputes in the China-Sweden relationship, including the arrest and sentencing of Gui Minhai, and the potential impact on Sweden if the bilateral relationship continues its downward spiral moving forward.
Debating China’s 5G Infrastructure in Europe: A Conversation with Janka Oertel
In this episode, Dr. Janka Oertel joins us to discuss the current debates in Europe surrounding the inclusion of Chinese technology in 5G infrastructure. Dr. Oertel discusses the potential risks and benefits of using Chinese 5G network equipment, as well as the different approaches countries in Europe are taking toward adopting this technology. She also offers her insights on how European policies on 5G might shape the broader Europe-China economic and political relationship moving forward.
China-EU Relations: A Conversation with Theresa Fallon
In this episode, Theresa Fallon joins us to discuss China’s evolving relationship with the European Union. Ms. Fallon assesses the outcomes of China’s recent and ongoing engagements in the region, including the Belt and Road Initiative. She also analyzes the impact of the Trump administration and US-China trade war on China-EU ties.