Xi Jinping’s European Tour: Balancing Economic Ties, Trade Tensions, and Ukraine Crisis
Chinese President Xi Jinping is gearing up for a significant diplomatic tour across Europe, with stops planned in France, Serbia, and Hungary. While economic ties and trade tensions with the European Union (EU) will be focal points, attention will also turn to China’s stance on Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Key Discussions on Ukraine Crisis
During his visit to France, discussions around China’s role in the Ukraine crisis are expected to take center stage. European Union officials have indicated that China’s participation in an upcoming international conference in Switzerland, aimed at addressing the conflict in Ukraine, will be a major topic of conversation. Despite Russia’s refusal to participate, Kyiv is actively advocating for Beijing’s involvement, given its significant partnership with Moscow.
Diplomatic Maneuvering Amidst War
Xi’s European tour coincides with China’s efforts to expand its diplomatic influence regarding the Ukrainian conflict while maintaining its strong ties with Russia. European officials, however, remain skeptical about Beijing’s potential role in facilitating a peace process. Brussels has expressed concerns that China’s involvement may ultimately pave the way for Moscow’s participation in similar discussions, without significant progress towards resolving the conflict.
Challenges and Expectations
As Xi embarks on his five-day tour, European leaders are grappling with the complexities of the Ukraine crisis, including setbacks on the battlefield and uncertainties surrounding Western military support for Kyiv. Despite China’s professed neutrality in the conflict, its deepening political and economic relations with Russia have raised questions about its commitment to mediating the crisis.
Call for Constructive Engagement
European officials have urged China to leverage its influence to encourage Russia to engage in negotiations and de-escalate the conflict. However, efforts to enlist Beijing’s support have yet to yield significant results. Theresa Fallon, Director of the Center for Russia Europe Asia Studies in Brussels, acknowledges the desire for China to play a constructive role but suggests that optimism may be waning as the conflict enters its third year.
