Beijing’s top envoy to the European Union, Fu Cong, warned the EU today to “drop calls for Ukraine’s complete victory” and to not sign an investment deal with Taiwan. This is yet another example of the growing tensions between China and Europe, and of the challenges China is posing to European unity and stability
The Threat of China’s Expansionism
China’s expansionist ambitions are not new. But in recent years, it has become more aggressive in pursuing its interests, busting the myth of its “peaceful rise” of earlier years. Its territorial claims in the South China Sea, its construction of military bases on disputed islands, and its human rights abuses against the Uighur minority, are all clear signs of its growing power and disregard for the rules-based international system.
This expansionism is not limited to Asia. In recent years, China has also been seeking to extend its influence into Europe, using its economic power to forge closer ties with individual European countries and exert pressure on the EU as a whole. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which is China’s massive infrastructure and investment program, is a prime example. By investing billions of dollars in countries along its proposed trade routes, China is seeking to increase its economic and political influence in the region.
China’s Growing Influence in Europe
China’s increasingly aggressive threats and interference in Europe is a major concern for the EU. The EU is the world’s largest economy and a major player on the global stage. However, its ability to defend its values and interests remains limited. The EU must be united and strong in the face of this threat, and must work together to defend its interests and protect its citizens.
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China’s warning to the EU to “drop calls for Ukraine’s complete victory” is an example of its subversive attempts at dividing Europe. The EU has been a strong supporter of Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, and has called for a peaceful resolution to the crisis. However, China’s warning is a clear attempt to undermine this unity and to divide the EU.
If the EU signed an investment treaty with Taiwan, it would fundamentally change or shake the foundation of EU-China relations. It is that serious.
Fu Cong, China’s Ambassador to the EU
In addition, China’s warning to the EU not to sign an investment deal with Taiwan is another example of its bullying tactics. Taiwan is a self-ruled democracy that has close ties with the West, and the EU has a responsibility to support its democratic institutions and protect its citizens.
Latest Threats Must Be Met With Resolute Action
The situation in Ukraine has been ongoing for a year now, with Russia’s full-scale invasion causing immense suffering and destruction. The idea of a “complete victory” for Ukraine has been most vocally supported by Baltic and Eastern European countries, with French President Emmanuel Macron also vowing support. However, China is trying to downplay the severity of the situation by calling it merely an “unavoidable” talking point. The EU must take a stand against such dismissiveness and show its support for Ukraine in their time of need.
Taiwan, on the other hand, faces military threats from a nuclear-armed neighbor and is in dire need of support. China’s envoy dismissed the comparison between Ukraine and Taiwan, stating that Taiwan is part of China, however, the EU must not be swayed by such rhetoric. Taiwan is a beacon of democracy in the region and must be protected from Chinese aggression.
It is time for the EU to take a resolute stand against China’s aggressive tactics. The EU must show that it is a strong and unified force for good in the world, capable of defending its citizens and values, and promoting human rights. By signing an investment treaty with Taiwan, the EU would send a clear message to China that it will not be intimidated. A strong Europe will ensure that its values and way of life are respected and protected in the world and will be a beacon of hope, a model of democracy, and a defender of human rights and the environment.
