Why EU-China stability is key in a world order ‘under constant attack’

A former top European Union official has urged the bloc to manage its competition with China responsibly, saying their relationship should not be influenced by other world powers.

Charles Michel, who was president of the European Council from 2019 to 2024, said tensions could arise out of the EU and China’s different traditions, cultures and political systems but “stability and predictability is in everyone’s interests”.

“We must manage our differences and competitions in a responsible way … Our divergences must be addressed with responsibility [and] sincerity,” he told a forum organised by the China Europe International Business School in Shanghai on Friday.

“A relationship should be based on its own merits. It should never be a collateral adjustment variable influenced by other powers.”

The comments come amid signs of easing in strains between Europe and China, with both lifting restrictions on reciprocal exchanges – a move described by the Chinese foreign ministry as a step towards deeper interactions and understanding.

The two have also been marking 50 years this month since the establishment of diplomatic relations.

As part of the milestone, Chinese President Xi Jinping this week wrote to EU leaders calling for a “sound and stable” relationship that would benefit both sides and the world.