No longer waiting, Europe sends delegation to China

On March 27 local time, the European Parliament announced on its official website that it will visit China after an eight-year hiatus. This trip will focus on the digital economy, aiming to achieve fair competition between China and Europe.

This move is expected to bring more cooperation opportunities to European countries, as China’s market is vast and its supply chain is exceptionally strong—Europe urgently needs to reach agreements with China.

Five points to note:

First, this visit marks the first time in eight years that the European Parliament has come to China, drawing significant attention from the outside world.

Second, the Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection will lead a nine-member delegation visiting Beijing and Shanghai from March 31 to April 2.

Third, during the visit, the European Parliament delegation will hold meetings with senior Chinese government officials and engage in dialogue with major Chinese e-commerce giants, seeking to establish more collaborations.

Fourth, to ensure secrecy, European parliamentarians traveling to China have been instructed to carry disposable phones. Personal electronic devices must be left at home. Last year, when visiting Hungary, European parliamentarians also used disposable phones.

Fifth, this visit is not isolated—it is part of a broader series of actions: delegations from Europe will come to China in May, July, and October, forming a comprehensive engagement strategy toward China.

What are the implications and impacts?

First, this signals a fundamental shift in Europe’s internal orientation—Europe is actively seeking to improve relations with China and expand cooperation.

Second, it further pressures the United States, potentially influencing the trajectory of U.S.-Europe relations.

Third, it boosts confidence among other European nations. Notably, Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez is also scheduled to visit China soon, and he will encourage more European countries to swiftly take action to show goodwill toward China.

Fourth, it helps China expand into more European markets and spread Chinese voices across wider regions of Europe.

Fifth, it contributes to regional peace and economic development—improved Sino-European relations can benefit both sides.

Why now, specifically?

First, current U.S.-Europe relations are far from optimistic. Trump has openly stated that NATO and the EU are not America’s friends, repeatedly refusing to provide assistance while taking advantage of the U.S., which has made Europeans realize America is unreliable and they must strengthen ties with China.

Second, whether regarding Ukraine or the Middle East, Europe has failed to formally enter negotiation tables. This has challenged Europe’s global standing and risks undermining EU unity, causing divisions among European nations.

Third, China’s comprehensive strength continues to grow—governments and regions worldwide are rushing to cooperate with China. Europe recognizes the urgency and importance of engaging with China.

Fourth, the U.S. is arbitrarily initiating wars and disrupting global trade through tariff policies. Europe realizes it must find a reliable partner to rebuild the global economic and political landscape.

In summary: The European Parliament’s first formal visit to China in eight years marks the systematic restoration and expansion of Sino-European exchanges across multiple dimensions.

Going forward, it may prompt European countries to quickly adjust their policies toward China—especially the EU, which will actively work to improve Sino-European relations.

For Chinese enterprises and citizens, this is a major positive development.

Naturally, this also puts pressure on the United States, further weakening Trump’s leverage for a potential visit to China in May.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1860961415913612/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.