To mark the 50th anniversary of relations between the EU and China, the 25th summit was held in Beijing on July 24, 2025. Leaders from both sides discussed all aspects of their bilateral relationship, as well as geopolitical issues, including Russia’s war in Ukraine. The EU was represented by European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, while China was represented by President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. A joint press release on climate change was issued during the summit.
The mood before the summit was tense, with low expectations for concrete bilateral agreements. The tension stemmed from trade disputes, particularly concerning market access and critical rare earth elements, as well as geopolitical strains, primarily Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. The EU views China as a partner for global challenges, an economic competitor in developing new technologies, and a systemic rival.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen noted at the summit that the trade relationship between the EU and China needs to become more balanced, as the EU’s trade deficit with China is growing. She emphasized that Europe welcomes competition, but it must be fair. Von der Leyen highlighted three key issues: excess production capacity, which doesn’t align with China’s domestic demand and affects the EU market; market access; and export controls on rare earth elements and permanent magnets. She warned that without progress on these issues, it would be very difficult for the EU to maintain its current level of market openness.
Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that Europe and China must make “correct strategic choices” amidst global challenges. He noted that the current challenges facing Europe do not originate from China. Xi Jinping urged the EU to pursue open cooperation and properly manage disagreements.
It was also noted that trade relations between the EU and China have reached an “inflection point,” as confirmed by comments made after the tense summit in Beijing. Von der Leyen stressed that the EU had “frankly and openly expressed its concerns about trade, investment, and geopolitical issues” and that “solutions were partially identified.” She mentioned that the Chinese leadership has begun to address the issue of overcapacity and expressed willingness to support increased consumption. She also affirmed that the EU’s relationship with China is “important, but it is independent of actions or issues we have with others.”
