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European Union Warms Tone Towards China

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The European Union is about to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations with China by “deepening trade and investment cooperation,” according to the EU’s trade commissioner, who spoke in Beijing on Thursday, as reported by a Chinese source.

During a meeting with Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng, Maros Sefcovic made these remarks, according to a report from Xinhua News Agency. The meeting took place on the first day of his two-day visit, with the officials dining at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse. The European Commission did not release its own account of the discussion.

Earlier that day, Sefcovic met with Chinese Customs Minister Sun Meijun before attending an event hosted by the EU Chamber of Commerce in China, where he engaged with European businesses.

At the business event, the Slovak commissioner reportedly reinforced a shift in tone that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has emphasized in several speeches this year.  

In those speeches, von der Leyen—who has previously taken a firm stance on China—has moderated her language, stressing that the EU could expand trade ties with Beijing and even explore new agreements.

These public remarks were intended to signal to the United States that Europe has options. However, according to EU sources, they were also meant to indicate to China that Brussels remains open to credible proposals.

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China as a Challenge in the U.S. Annual Threat Assessment Report

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A recent U.S. Annual Threat Assessment from the U.S. Intelligence community highlights the military and cybersecurity threats posed by China, particularly concerning its ambitions toward Taiwan. The report indicates that while Beijing has made notable advancements in enhancing its military capabilities, this progress has been inconsistent. Additionally, the document emphasizes that China’s growing military prowess empowers it to confront the United States with conventional weapons and execute cyberattacks that pose significant risks to critical American infrastructure and assets.

Additionally, the report indicates that China is poised to surpass the United States as a global leader in artificial intelligence by 2030. This ambition is part of a broader strategy to enhance its technological edge, with potentially profound implications for international security. CIA Director John Ratcliffe highlighted that China is actively working to restrict the flow of chemicals used in fentanyl production into the United States, acknowledging the economic repercussions this crisis has on its own businesses.

The tensions between the U.S. and China have been further fueled by the fentanyl crisis in America, which remains the leading cause of drug overdose deaths. In response to Beijing’s perceived inaction in curbing the supply of this dangerous substance, the Trump administration implemented a 20% tariff on Chinese imports. Conversely, Chinese diplomats, including Liu Pengyu, have accused the U.S. of exaggerating the “China threat” to justify its military dominance. Liu emphasized that China is dedicated to peace, stability, and progress while safeguarding its sovereignty and security, suggesting that the U.S. should take responsibility for its own public health challenges.

The intelligence report highlights the military pressure that China exerts on Taiwan, noting that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is actively enhancing its capabilities to assert control over the island and counter any potential U.S. intervention. This development raises significant concerns among American policymakers, reflecting Beijing’s increasing readiness to employ military force to enforce its territorial claims. However, it is essential to recognize that China is grappling with substantial domestic challenges, including widespread corruption, an aging population, and economic vulnerabilities that could undermine the Communist Party’s hold on power. Analysts anticipate that China’s economy may continue to decelerate, driven by declining consumer and investor confidence. These internal issues could complicate Beijing’s external ambitions and reshape its strategic calculations. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, the interplay between China’s external aspirations and its internal realities will be crucial in determining the future of U.S.-China relations and the dynamics of regional security.

Author: Liza Barbakadze

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Washington’s new tariffs on Chinese ships

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A major debate is underway in Washington this week between U.S. officials and representatives of the American maritime, export and agricultural sectors, which was triggered by the imposition of additional tariffs on Chinese-made and Chinese-owned ships calling at U.S. ports.

The president’s plan calls for a revival of the local shipbuilding industry by imposing tariffs of up to $1.5 million on ships bound for China.

In arguing for the critical importance of imposing the tariffs, the USTR argues that Chinese government subsidies harm American businesses by limiting competition and investment opportunities, while also posing economic and national security risks that Beijing could use strategically in a potential conflict.

The measure, which enjoys bipartisan support in Congress, is intended to discourage ocean carriers from buying Chinese ships, while the proceeds from the tariffs would be used to revive the U.S. shipping industry.

These potential port fees have limited the availability of ships needed to deliver agricultural, energy, mining, construction, and manufacturing products to international consumers.

Shipowners have already withdrawn their bids to ship coal to the United States in the future, as a result of the USTR’s sanctions, Xcoal Energy & Resources CEO Ernie Thrasher said in a letter to U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

As Thrasher notes, the imposition and enforcement of these penalties could result in a complete halt to U.S. coal exports for 60 days, jeopardizing $130 billion in shipments. In addition, these penalties could increase the market value of U.S. coal supplies by 35%, making them uncompetitive on the world market.

The proposed tariffs could also make it harder for U.S. exports of other energy products, such as oil, liquefied natural gas and fuel oil, the American Petroleum Institute said in a submission to the USTR.

More than 200 companies, trade groups and individuals have already submitted comments or requested to speak at the hearing, which will take place over two days in Washington this week. Nearly all groups oppose a proposal by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to impose millions of dollars in new tariffs every time a Chinese-made ship enters a U.S. port.

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China and Russia: Two Primary Challenges for Europe

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On 19 March 2025, the European Commission published the Joint White Paper for European Defence Readiness 2030, an action plan aimed at strengthening the European defence industry and advancing collective security mechanisms.

According to the White Paper, the international order established after World War II is transforming. Strategic competition among major global powers is intensifying in the EU’s broader neighborhood, including the Middle East and West Africa. Transatlantic unity faces new challenges from increasingly authoritarian regimes. Accordingly, the document emphasizes that reinforcing Europe’s collective security necessitates greater investment and enhanced solidarity among member states.

The introductory section of the White Paper outlines the principal challenges to Europe’s collective security. Notably, the document devotes particular attention to China when addressing threats posed by authoritarian states:

The White Paper designates the Russian Federation as a fundamental threat to European security, asserting that Moscow will retain this status for the foreseeable future. According to the document, Russia remains a destabilizing force in the EU’s immediate neighborhood, including Georgia.

Furthermore, the White Paper identifies China as the second most significant challenge to the EU’s collective security. Notably, it asserts that the nature of the threats posed by China’s influence is strategically similar to those stemming from Russian expansionism. Consequently, the European Commission regards China as a challenge of similar magnitude to Russia.

The document characterizes the threat posed by China as systemic, rooted in several key factors:

  1. It emanates from a state governed by an authoritarian and undemocratic system.
  2. It arises from a state that seeks to attain primacy and, in some cases, supremacy through trade, investment, and technological dominance.

The document underscores that China’s status as one of the EU’s principal trading partners does not mitigate the reality of the threat posed by Beijing. Specifically:

  • China ranks second globally in defense expenditures, with a budget surpassing the combined military spending of all East Asian nations.
  • China is actively advancing military capabilities, particularly in nuclear, space, and cyber domains.
  • The opacity of China’s military expansion remains a concern, as Beijing does not publicly disclose comprehensive information about its defense capabilities.
  • The modernization of China’s military-industrial complex exhibits both quantitative and qualitative enhancement.
  • China increasingly employs political, economic, military, cognitive, and cyber strategies to assert influence over Taiwan.

According to the White Paper, China’s expanding military capabilities are significantly altering the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, Beijing’s actions are contributing to instability across multiple regions, including the East and South China Seas, as well as the Indo-Pacific as a whole. The document warns that an escalation of tensions in the Taiwan Strait could severely impact the European Union, potentially restricting access to critical resources and key technologies. Thus, China’s maneuvers in this geographical sphere have profound implications for European security.

The White Paper underscores the necessity of enhancing the EU’s collective defense capabilities in response to escalating threats from Russia and China. It outlines a comprehensive strategy for developing the European defense industry by 2030, including measures to strengthen military cooperation among member states.

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Chinese Premier met with American Senator

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On March 23rd, in Beijing, after the annual business summit, the Chinese Premier, Li Qiang, held a meeting with American Senator Steve Daines and the representatives of the large U.S. businesses, such as Pfizer and Apple.

Notably, Daines is the first American politician to visit China after Donald Trump’s inauguration. He is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Trump’s avid supporter. Apart from this, he was involved in the negotiations between the U.S. and China on trade issues during Trump’s first term as President.

The meeting is especially important to China after the increased tariffs from the American side – the country is trying to expand foreign investment and convince businesses that the country’s economic environment is favorable. The Premier called on American companies to „resist protectionism“ and defend globalization.

According to Li Qiang, China will increase access to markets in various sectors for foreign investors. He warned the representatives that „breaking supply chains would only deepen crises“.

The Premier also remarked that China is ready for „unexpected shocks caused by external sources,“ and the government will introduce new policies to guarantee the smooth operation of the Chinese economy where it’s needed.

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China-Iran ties could prompt a tougher US stance

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Analysts anticipate that Washington will increase pressure on Tehran in response to last week’s trilateral nuclear talks between China, Iran, and Russia – an expectation that aligns with the growing consensus in the U.S. against both Beijing, the host of the meeting, and Iran.

The discussions, which urged an end to “illegal sanctions” on Tehran, took place just days after Iran dismissed Donald Trump’s proposal to restart negotiations on its nuclear program. 

Wang met with Iranian and Russian deputy foreign ministers on Friday, stressing China’s hope that “all parties will meet each other halfway and resume dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible.” He also urged the U.S. to “show political sincerity and return to the talks as soon as possible.”

Meanwhile, the U.S. and five other nations convened a closed-door Security Council meeting to discuss the matter, with Britain suggesting that sanctions could be reinstated if Iran expanded its nuclear program. According to China’s foreign ministry, Wang further expressed opposition to any “forced intervention” by the United Nations Security Council.

Despite facing resistance, China remains committed to pursuing multilateral negotiations on the nuclear issue. Experts believe Beijing will use these discussions to strengthen its role as a key mediator in the Middle East while expanding its regional influence.

During the March 14 talks in Beijing, the three nations reaffirmed their dedication to non-proliferation and jointly condemned “sanctions, pressure, or the threat of force.” Additionally, Wang proposed a five-point plan to address the Iranian nuclear issue, which emphasized adherence to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) nuclear deal. The U.S. abandoned this agreement under President Donald Trump during his first term.

The U.S. on Thursday issued new Iran-related sanctions, targeting entities including for the first time a Chinese “teapot,” or independent refinery, and vessels that supplied crude oil to such processing plants.

It was Washington’s fourth round of sanctions on Iran’s oil sales since President Donald Trump said in February he was re-imposing a “maximum pressure” campaign including efforts to drive down the country’s exports to zero. Trump aims to stop Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and funding militant groups.

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BRICS’ Push for Alternative Currency Sparks Trump’s Backlash

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During his visit to Washington last October, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, eagerly shared photos of his discussions with Biden administration officials Gina Raimondo and Katherine Tai. He also spoke publicly about the strong, long-standing ties between India and the United States.

However, Goyal’s recent visit to Washington earlier this month painted a starkly different picture. This time, he left without providing any details about his meetings with the newly appointed US Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, and Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer. A week after his return, he shared a single photo with Greer on social media, stating only that their discussion was “forward-looking” and guided by an “India First” perspective.

Goyal’s sudden trip to the US, which had originally been planned for April, was prompted by US President Donald Trump’s announcement that starting April 2, reciprocal tariffs would be imposed on all US trading partners.

An even bigger concern for India—and other members of the BRICS—was Trump’s strong stance against their attempts to lessen dependence on the US dollar in international trade. The former president dismissed BRICS as “dead” and warned of a 100 percent tariff hike on imports from the bloc’s nations, accusing them of “playing games with the dollar.”

Despite Trump’s claims, BRICS has struggled to move forward with the idea of establishing an alternative currency due to its lack of a cohesive structure, making it difficult for member states to reach a consensus on such an ambitious initiative. In February 2025, it was announced that Brazil had decided not to join the common currency plan. With this decision, the country safeguarded its close economic ties with the United States.

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A New Wave of Russian Propaganda: BRICS as an Alternative to the EU

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According to reports published on March 15, US-sanctioned former Prosecutor General of Georgia, Temur Partskhaladze, has been facilitating investments from BRICS countries in Georgia, offering opportunities for business acquisitions. Given the Georgian Dream (GD) party’s shifting stance away from the Euro-Atlantic trajectory, the increasing engagement of BRICS investors in Georgia raises significant concerns. This development fuels speculation that GD might be considering BRICS membership as part of its broader strategy.

On March 15, it was revealed that Russian citizen and US-sanctioned former Georgian Prosecutor General Otar Partskhaladze has been assisting investors from BRICS nations in acquiring businesses within Georgia. To facilitate this, he established the brokerage company BIZAVI, which connects investors with business opportunities in Russia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Georgia. Notably, since October 2024, Partskhaladze has led the investment platform BRICS International Business Broker.

BRICS, founded in 2009 by Russia, China, Brazil, and India, serves as an alternative to the Western-dominated global order. Currently comprising over ten member states—including nations openly hostile to the West, such as Iran—the bloc asserts that Western powers disproportionately influence international institutions, sidelining the interests of developing countries. Consequently, BRICS pursues objectives such as:

  • Enhancing the role of the Global South in global governance;
  • Coordinating economic policies among member states;
  • Reducing reliance on the US dollar;
  • Establishing an alternative financial system.

Russia and China, as the dominant forces within BRICS, consistently advocate for a multipolar world order that challenges Western, particularly American, hegemony. The bloc’s influence now extends beyond Asia, reaching the South Caucasus. Notably, Azerbaijan submitted an official application for BRICS membership in August 2024, a move that has fueled discussions within Georgian anti-Western circles regarding the prospect of Georgia joining the bloc.

An analysis of the Georgian media landscape reveals that Russian propaganda machinery has already been activated to promote Georgia’s potential BRICS membership. On October 27, 2024, Alexander Dugin, the Kremlin’s chief ideologue, congratulated Georgian Dream on its electoral victory and advised the ruling party:

“Georgian Dream needs a strategy… They can make Georgia great again… and join BRICS.”

Interestingly, discussions about BRICS within Georgia’s pro-government media, particularly Imedi, intensified in 2024. A notable propagandist in this regard is Temur Maisuradze, a former Georgian Dream MP (2012–2016), who has been particularly vocal. In a November 4, 2024, interview, Maisuradze argued that Article 78 of Georgia’s Constitution impedes the country’s ability to join BRICS. He asserted that BRICS represents a step forward for Georgia, stating, “Refusing to join would be a betrayal of the homeland… We must become members of this union.”

Imedi’s founder and owner, Irakli Rukhadze, a key propagandist for Georgian Dream, has long opposed the constitutional provision mandating Georgia’s integration with the EU and NATO. He has dismissed this commitment as an unnecessary constraint, remarking:

“The entire nation’s focus has been diverted to this… It has been elevated to a sacred, dogmatic status… Why is this written in the Constitution? This is nonsense. If you ask me, we should not have written such things in the Constitution, which is a permanent document.”

(Irakli Rukhadze, Imedi TV, July 14, 2024)

Another Imedi-affiliated commentator, David Chikhelidze, echoed similar sentiments on December 23, 2024, arguing that Georgia could secure a distinct position within BRICS, as it is “a purely economic union that does not interfere in the internal politics of its member states.” Notably, Georgian propagandists frequently emphasize BRICS’s purportedly economic focus, contrasting it with the European Union, which they depict as more politically intrusive.

Regarding BRICS itself, Georgia has drawn the bloc’s attention amid ongoing domestic protests. The only article concerning Georgia on BRICS’s official website was published on November 29, 2024—the day after the Georgian Dream Prime Minister announced the suspension of negotiations with the EU. The article, titled “West Again Tries to Stage Coup d’état in Georgia,” aligns closely with Russian narratives, predicting that the protests will ultimately fail:

“The West is trying to stage a coup d’état in Georgia by organizing a color revolution, inciting mass protests and internal conflicts in the former Soviet republic, but protests by the Georgian opposition against allegedly rigged parliamentary elections will ultimately fail.’

It is evident that BRICS, a bloc co-founded by Russia, is not a politically neutral entity focused solely on economic development. Consequently, it comes as no surprise that BRICS does not respect Georgia’s territorial integrity. In June 2024, during a BRICS Sports Games, the so-called “flags” of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali were displayed alongside the Georgian flag. Against this backdrop, given the increasingly anti-Western and pro-Russian/Chinese foreign policy inclinations of the Georgian Dream, it is plausible that Bidzina Ivanishvili’s government views BRICS as a viable alternative to EU integration.

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China’s Global Times praises Trump for defunding USAGM

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China’s state-owned newspaper, the Global Times, expressed approval on Monday regarding budget cuts to the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM). This agency oversees broadcasters such as Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Asia (RFA), who have a history of critical reporting on Beijing.

In an editorial published Monday, the Global Times accused VOA of biased reporting on China-related issues. The editorial claimed that “almost every malicious falsehood about China has VOA’s fingerprints all over it.” It listed alleged examples, including coverage of human rights concerns in Xinjiang, territorial disputes in the South China Sea, and the so-called “China virus” narrative.

Other nationalist commentators also took aim at VOA and RFA. This included a columnist from the Communist Party-affiliated Beijing Daily and Hu Xijin, the former editor-in-chief of the Global Times. Additionally, former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen joined the criticism, writing on social media that the funding cuts were a significant step in “eliminating fake news, disinformation, lies, distortions, incitement, and chaos around the world.”

Funding cuts stem from an executive order signed by Trump on Friday, which mandated reductions in operations for seven federal entities, including USAGM and the Wilson Center think tank. The move aligns with broader efforts to scale back foreign aid and cut the civilian workforce. 

The impact of the funding reduction has been swift. As of Monday, VOA’s broadcasts have ceased, and its website has not published any new content beyond March 15. RFA continues to release content for the time being, though it is bracing for upcoming staff furloughs.

The cuts have sparked debate in Washington. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio has publicly supported Uygur’s rights, the State Department has remained vague on the situation. 

Democrats have strongly opposed the decision to defund USAGM’s media outlets. U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen condemned the move as “unfathomable.” She vowed to protect legally mandated USAGM functions and argued that Trump’s actions threaten press freedom.  “If President Trump gets his way, those who depend on US-supported independent media as alternatives to Chinese- and Kremlin-run media outlets and those living under authoritarian regimes will lose a critical lifeline,” she said.

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Civic IDEA Cited by Foreign Policy Research Institute

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Foreign Policy Research Institute referenced Civic IDEA’s reports in its article, China’s Georgian Gamble. The piece examines the evolving Sino-Georgian strategic partnership in light of the Georgian Dream party’s shift away from a Euro-Atlantic foreign policy trajectory.

Drawing on Civic IDEA’s research, the article explores China’s growing presence in Georgia, including its role in infrastructure projects, the expanding influence of Chinese technology in the local market, and the use of soft power.

Read the full article at the link below: China’s Georgian Gamble.

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