BRUSSELS (AP) — Western allies are increasingly engaging with China, seeking economic opportunities despite concerns about Beijing’s practices and potential repercussions from the United States.
European Nations Recalibrate Ties with Beijing
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently concluded a trade deal slashing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and Canadian canola oil. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Beijing this week to repair strained relations, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is expected to follow suit next month. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo also recently met with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Canada Leads the Way
Carney’s visit to Beijing — the first by a Canadian prime minister in eight years — resulted in tariff reductions, which he described as making the Canada-China trade relationship “more predictable.” This followed a 100% tariff imposed by the previous administration on Chinese electric vehicles to protect the U.S. auto industry. Following Carney’s return, former President Donald Trump threatened a 100% tariff on Canada over the China trade deal, a move Carney dismissed as bluster.
A Major Shift in the World Order
This outreach from U.S. allies represents a significant shift since Donald Trump’s return to office, as countries explore opportunities with China following clashes with Trump over tariffs and demands regarding Greenland. Despite the risk of upsetting Trump, they are resetting relations with a country long considered a top adversary and economic rival to the U.S.
Differing Perspectives
Some leaders and experts lament this shift, fearing it could favor Beijing at Washington’s expense. Others argue that China presents challenges comparable to those posed by the U.S., as both countries exert pressure to advance their own interests. U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen expressed concern that the outreach is “pushing our closest allies into their arms.”
China’s Strategy and European Concerns
China is engaging with European capitals individually, seeking easy access to affluent consumers while offering limited concessions to European businesses. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas acknowledged China’s “economic coercive practices” but emphasized the need for diverse partnerships. Analysts note a growing understanding in Europe that both the U.S. and China are willing to exert pressure.
Trump’s Reaction
Trump called Starmer’s Beijing visit “very dangerous” and warned Canada against pursuing business with China, stating he is expected to visit Beijing in April.
“Everyone goes to Beijing, including the guy who doesn’t want us to go to China,” said Joerg Wuttke, a former president of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China.
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