Charting a Resilient Future for EU–China Relations

The future of relations between the European Union and China has become one of the most defining questions for global economic and geopolitical stability. With trade frictions intensifying in recent years—ranging from concerns about export restrictions and industrial overcapacity to the broader backdrop of security tensions—the need for constructive dialogue is more urgent than ever. This sense of urgency set the tone for the Europe–China Forum in Brussels, where policymakers, scholars and practitioners gathered to reflect on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The Forum took place on November 13.

The Global Solutions Initiative was represented by Dr. Sebastian Schwark, Senior Fellow at GSI and CEO of SEC Newgate Deutschland, who joined an accomplished panel alongside Linlin Liang, Bernd Biervert, Wang Yiwei and Zhao Hai. Moderated by Valbona Zeneli, the discussion explored how Europe and China might recalibrate their relationship without losing sight of the deep interdependence that has characterized their cooperation for decades. The event was convened by Friends of Europe, whose continued commitment to fostering dialogue on pressing international issues remains invaluable. We would particularly like to thank Dharmendra Kanani for organizing this timely exchange.

Throughout the session, it became clear that despite the mounting pressures surrounding the relationship, both sides share an interest in preventing further deterioration. The economic ties between the EU and China are substantial and mutually beneficial, supporting industries, innovation systems and employment across continents. Panelists noted that the current tensions, while significant, should not overshadow this long-standing partnership. Instead, they should serve as a reminder of the need to approach frictions with a measured, forward-looking mindset.

Dr. Schwark’s intervention captured this sentiment succinctly. He emphasized that the EU–China relationship is “too deep and too important to squander,” urging all sides to look beyond immediate disputes and focus on the broader horizon. His remarks pointed to a central theme of the conversation: the recognition that geopolitical polarization is exerting a corrosive influence on economic cooperation. Conflicts and divisions in the international system, he argued, are increasingly spilling over into trade relations, making it harder for both sides to maintain the stability and openness that have historically supported growth.

One notable point in the discussion was the role of multilateral institutions. Several speakers underscored that institutions designed to facilitate cooperation, transparency and dispute resolution are critical foundations for managing complex relationships such as that between the EU and China. Dr. Schwark highlighted the importance of strengthening these frameworks, not only to address trade-related issues but also to help navigate wider geopolitical challenges. Working with China on resolving ongoing global conflicts—including Russia’s war against Ukraine—was identified as essential for rebuilding trust and fostering a more stable environment for economic engagement.

The panel also explored the nature of current trade frictions, which extend beyond questions of market access or industrial policy. Broader security concerns have become intertwined with economic decisions, often complicating dialogue and limiting room for compromise. Participants stressed that while legitimate security interests must be acknowledged, they should not be allowed to overshadow the long-term value of cooperation. Finding ways to responsibly manage security concerns while maintaining open channels of communication will be key to preserving the resilience of the relationship.

Against this complexity, the importance of sustained dialogue was a recurring theme. While disagreements are inevitable, the ability to address them openly and constructively can prevent misunderstandings from hardening into entrenched divides. The Europe–China Forum offered a space for such engagement, bringing together diverse perspectives and fostering a balanced exchange. Many attendees remarked that these types of forums remain essential, particularly at a moment when geopolitical uncertainty is shaping global affairs in increasingly unpredictable ways.

For the Global Solutions Initiative, the event reaffirmed a central belief: cooperation, trust-building and strong multilateral structures remain the cornerstones of a future-oriented EU–China relationship. The debate highlighted that neither side benefits from escalation, and that the potential for constructive engagement remains significant if both parties commit to clear communication and shared problem-solving. The path forward may be complex, but it is far from closed.

As the conversation in Brussels demonstrated, the key question is not whether the EU and China will continue to interact—they inevitably will—but how they will choose to shape that interaction. By grounding their partnership in transparency, mutual respect and a renewed commitment to multilateral cooperation, both sides have the opportunity to build a more resilient and adaptable relationship. Such an approach is not only in the interest of Europe and China, but also crucial for global stability at a time when international collaboration is increasingly under strain.

The forum made clear that the task ahead is to transform current tensions into opportunities for more thoughtful and balanced engagement. Doing so will help ensure that the EU–China partnership remains a stabilizing force in a world that urgently needs constructive leadership and shared solutions.