China Imposes Duties on EU Brandy Amid Rising Trade Tensions Ahead of Summit

Tensions between China and the European Union have intensified ahead of a high-profile summit, with China imposing duties on EU brandy in response to investigations into Chinese subsidies for electric vehicle makers. Despite efforts to stabilize relations, significant disagreements remain, especially regarding trade imbalances and China's stance on Russia and the war in Ukraine, with Beijing opposing a Russian defeat. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the 50-year history of China-EU relations, advocating for partnership over rivalry and cooperation through dialogue to manage differences, supporting multilateralism and the role of the United Nations. However, EU officials express skepticism about China's portrayal of the relationship as problem-free, highlighting unresolved economic and geopolitical challenges. Experts note that while strong China-EU ties are vital for global stability, the partnership is marked by both opportunities in trade and climate cooperation and strategic rivalry over human rights and market access. With upcoming summits and ongoing US-EU negotiations influencing the dynamic, the future of China-EU relations remains complex and uncertain.