Ursula von der Leyen Calls for Balanced EU-China Trade Relations in Paris Talks

Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, highlighted the EU’s commitment to protecting its economy and security in light of tense trade relations with China. During trilateral talks in Paris with Chinese President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron, she stressed the need for a fair-playing China that would benefit everyone.

Von der Leyen emphasized the EU’s determination to make difficult decisions to safeguard its economy and security, particularly regarding significant imbalances in trade. She pointed out concerns surrounding Chinese subsidies for electric cars and steel that were saturating the European market. Additionally, she criticized China for not providing fair access to its market for EU companies.

While expressing optimism for potential progress in talks, Von der Leyen also issued a warning that the EU was prepared to fully utilize trade defense instruments if necessary, emphasizing the EU’s rejection of market-distorting practices. French President Macron had previously urged Chinese President Xi to adhere to fair global trade rules during his state visit to France, emphasizing the importance of balanced EU-China relations for the future of the continent.