China has reportedly cancelled a planned visit by the European Union’s (EU) foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell. The cancellation was announced by a spokesperson for the EU, Nabila Massrali, who stated that the Chinese government had informed them that the scheduled dates for the visit next week were no longer possible. Massrali added that alternative arrangements were now being sought. The Chinese government has not confirmed the visit and has not provided any comment on its cancellation.
The visit by Borrell was initially announced by the EU’s envoy to China, Jorge Toledo, during the 11th World Peace Forum in Beijing on Sunday. Toledo stated that Borrell was scheduled to travel to China next Monday in order to address various outstanding issues with Beijing, including “partnership,” “competition,” and “systemic rivalry.” One of the key objectives of the visit was to address the strategic issues that the EU has with China.
However, the cancellation of this visit comes as a setback to the EU’s efforts to engage with China. Borrell had previously visited Beijing in April of this year, but the trip had to be rescheduled after the top diplomat tested positive for COVID-19. The EU Commission chief, Ursula von der Leyen, and French President Emmanuel Macron subsequently toured the country in Borrell’s absence.
Borrell’s stance on China has been somewhat ambiguous in the past. While he has referred to China as a “rival,” he has also acknowledged it as a partner. He has raised concerns about China’s growing alliance with Russia and its neutral stance on the conflict in Ukraine. Another issue of contention is Taiwan, which Beijing considers to be an integral part of its territory.
The cancellation of Borrell’s visit reflects the growing tensions between the EU and China. The EU has repeatedly voiced concerns over issues such as human rights abuses in Xinjiang, China’s treatment of Hong Kong, and unfair trade practices. The EU has also been critical of China’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, China has accused the EU of interfering in its internal affairs and has taken retaliatory measures such as sanctions on EU officials.
The cancellation of Borrell’s visit is likely to further strain the already fragile relationship between the EU and China. It underscores the challenges faced by the EU in its attempts to establish a more balanced and constructive relationship with China, one that respects both mutual interests and values. The EU will now have to reassess its approach and seek alternative avenues for engaging with China on the various issues of concern. As the EU and China navigate their complex relationship, these latest developments highlight the importance of dialogue and cooperation in finding common ground and resolving differences.
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