China Urges EU to Avoid Confrontation Amid Tensions Over Security and Ukraine
China’s top diplomat, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, cautioned the European Union against adopting a confrontational stance during talks in Brussels on Wednesday, amid escalating tensions over Beijing’s support for Moscow and other security-related concerns.
According to a statement from China’s foreign ministry released Thursday, Wang told EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas that differences between China and the EU should not lead to confrontation. “China and the European Union should not be regarded as opponents because of differences, nor should they seek confrontation because of disagreements,” Wang said.
Wang’s remarks followed pointed criticism from Kallas, who said before their meeting that Europe’s relationship with China was under growing pressure, particularly in the security domain. While calling China “not our adversary,” she accused Beijing of enabling Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine through trade, cyberattacks, interference in democratic systems, and practices that damage Europe’s economy and job market.
Kallas labeled Chinese firms as “Moscow’s lifeline” in sustaining its military campaign against Ukraine, now entering its fourth year. She further warned that “enabling war in Europe while seeking closer ties with Europe is a contradiction Beijing must address.”
China has repeatedly presented itself as a neutral actor in the Ukraine conflict, though Western governments argue that its economic and diplomatic backing has been vital for Moscow. In his response, Wang emphasized that China had not caused Europe’s current challenges—”not in the past, present, or future”—and urged the EU to pursue a more “active and pragmatic” policy towards Beijing.
Highlighting the growing competition between superpowers, Wang drew a contrast between China and the United States, saying, “The path taken by the United States should not be used as a reflection of China. China is not the United States.” His remarks referenced recent moves by Washington to propose broader tariffs on European imports, positioning Beijing as a more stable partner.
China’s foreign ministry noted that during the meetings, the two sides also discussed broader geopolitical issues, including the war in Ukraine, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the Iran nuclear deal.
Wang also met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot. In his discussion with von der Leyen, Wang reiterated the need for both sides to promote multilateralism and free trade while cooperating on global challenges such as climate change.
His European tour will continue with stops in Germany, where he will hold diplomatic talks with Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, and in France for a meeting with Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s minister for Europe and foreign affairs.
Wang’s visit comes ahead of a scheduled summit in Beijing later this month between Chinese President Xi Jinping and the EU’s top leadership, signaling a crucial moment for both sides as they navigate complex diplomatic and economic challenges.
