Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, emphasized the EU’s commitment to taking tough measures to protect its economy and security during trilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. She stated that a fair-playing China would benefit everyone, and underscored the EU’s determination to make difficult decisions to safeguard its economy and security.
Von der Leyen pointed out concerns surrounding significant imbalances in the global market, particularly highlighting Chinese subsidies for electric cars and steel that were saturating the European market. She also criticized China for not providing fair access to its market for EU companies. While expressing optimism for potential progress in talks, she issued a warning that the EU was prepared to fully utilize trade defence instruments if necessary, emphasizing the EU’s rejection of market-distorting practices.
French President Macron had previously urged Chinese President Xi to adhere to fair global trade rules during his state visit to France, emphasizing the importance of balanced EU-China relations for the future of the continent. The three leaders discussed various issues including climate change, trade relations, and regional security concerns.