China’s stance on Ukraine war is critical to good relations with EU, bloc’s foreign policy chief says

Josep Borrell, the European Union's (EU) foreign policy chief, recently concluded his visit to China. During his visit, he held discussions with China's top diplomat, Wang Yi. The primary focus of their talks was the ongoing war in Ukraine and the EU's significant trade deficit with China. Borrell urged China to ensure that Russia adheres to the sanctions imposed by the EU due to the war in Ukraine. He also requested China's assistance in reviving the Black Sea grain export deal, which is crucial for global food security. Borrell's visit to China was part of the preparations for an upcoming China-EU summit, the date of which is yet to be determined. Borrell emphasized the importance of China viewing the Ukraine crisis as a security threat to the EU. He also urged China to not view its relationship with the EU through the lens of the EU's relations with other countries, likely referring to the United States. Borrell acknowledged that China has not been providing arms to Russia, which he appreciated. However, he asked China to refrain from assisting Russia in circumventing the sanctions. He also highlighted the global impact of the war in Ukraine, stating that it is affecting the security of Europeans and sending shock waves around the world. Borrell requested China to use its influence to persuade Russia to return to the Black Sea grain initiative, which would allow Ukrainian grain to be exported to the rest of the world. If not, he warned of a potential food crisis. Borrell also addressed the EU's trade deficit with China, stating that it is not a result of a simple difference in productivity. He pointed to structural reasons such as the persistent difficulties experienced by European companies in gaining access to Chinese markets. He warned that if the public perceives the trade imbalance with China as a threat to key sectors or the transition towards climate neutrality, it may demand more drastic protectionist measures. Borrell also discussed the conflict in Israel and Gaza, agreeing with Chinese officials that a two-state solution is the only viable long-term solution. He concluded his visit by expressing the EU's commitment to managing relations with China in a constructive and responsible manner, and expecting Beijing to take Brussels more seriously.