EU-China Summit: Trade Tensions and Geopolitics Dominate as Leaders Seek a Reset

European Union leaders met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing for the 25th EU-China summit, marking 50 years of diplomatic relations amid heightened tensions. The summit focused on deepening economic ties, addressing trade imbalances, and discussing global challenges such as climate change and Russia’s war in Ukraine. Both sides expressed the need for a 'rebalancing' of their relationship, with the EU pressing China on its trade surplus and support for Russia, while China urged the EU to make 'correct strategic choices.' Expectations for major breakthroughs were low, but both parties aimed to maintain dialogue and cooperation on key issues. The summit took place against the backdrop of US tariffs, which are pushing the EU to reconsider its approach to China.