Online media briefing on the EU-China summit in Beijing

On December 7 and 8, 2023, an in-person EU-China summit will take place in Beijing for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President Charles Michel will meet China's President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. 

While trade between the EU and China has flourished in recent months, political relations remain strained. The de-risking agenda put forward by von der Leyen to reduce dependencies on China in critical sectors is met with criticism from Beijing. Geopolitical issues like China’s stance on Russia’s war in Ukraine and potential conflict in the Taiwan Strait burden relations between Beijing and Brussels. On the other hand, China has taken small steps to reduce tensions by relaxing visa regulations and lifting trade restrictions. Issues of reciprocity in market access for companies and investors, and rising competition in high-tech areas will likely be discussed at the summit. 
Both sides will explore options of how to constructively shape future relations despite persisting tensions and different views. Which signals can be expected from the summit? 

At our media briefing, our experts will share their insights and answer your questions: 

• Abigaël Vasselier, Director Policy & European Affairs
• Grzegorz Stec, Analyst in the MERICS Brussels office 
• François Chimits, Brussels-based Analyst in the Economics Research Team 

The session will be moderated by Claudia Wessling, Director Communication and Publications, MERICS.