The President of the Council of Europe, Charles-Michel, spoke with Xi Jinping about how Beijing wields its influence over Moscow and whether it can curb Russia’s aggression. In Beijing, the conversation echoed a familiar pattern: high-level talks resume in person after nearly three years of Covid-induced distancing, most recently alongside German President Olaf Scholz. The backdrop also included ongoing discussions with U.S. President Joe Biden at major summits, and with other leaders who are pressing for face-to-face engagement. What lies ahead remains a focal point as diplomacy continues to unfold.
European sources reported that the exchange touched on trade, human rights, Taiwan, Xinjiang, and the post-pandemic world, but the war in Ukraine dominated most of the discussion. Michel emphasized that peace bears shared responsibility and, out of respect for the UN Charter, urged Xi to use China’s influence to influence Russia. Xi clarified that China does not supply weapons to Moscow and rejects the use of nuclear weapons. These positions have been repeatedly asserted by Beijing. The narrative contrasted with Washington’s stated plans to provide military support, which did not materialize in the form of troops on the ground. The conversation underscored that China views wars as detrimental to regional stability, to its own development and trade, and to its relations with the European Union and Ukraine.
macroeconomic coordination
The dialogue then pivoted toward restoring economic coordination, with a candid assessment of the ongoing Russian dossier. Xi conveyed that there is no strategic rift between China and the European Union. He stressed the need to align macroeconomic policies, safeguard stable supply chains, and invest in digital economy infrastructure and environmental initiatives. The discussion also highlighted collaboration on new energy sources and artificial intelligence, with China signaling it does not seek dominance and affirming support for the EU’s autonomous strategy.
The challenge centers on balancing divergent views within the EU regarding autonomy and the shift in diplomatic priorities following the Ukrainian crisis. During the meeting, the Chinese side affirmed that the EU adheres to an autonomous strategy while maintaining the One-China principle and seeking clearer communication to reduce misapprehensions. This framing reflects an effort to synchronize European resilience with Beijing’s broader strategic calculus.
Human rights
Michel pressed the issue of civil liberties and the right to peaceful assembly, noting concerns about recent protests connected to strict pandemic measures. Xi responded that China is prepared to initiate a China-EU Human Rights Dialogue built on equality and mutual respect, signaling a path for ongoing conversations without escalating tensions. The exchange underscored a shared interest in human rights dialogue even as substantial disagreements persist on practical implementations.
Commerce also surfaced. Like the United States and several EU members, European governments have raised concerns about perceived barriers to foreign investment and market access. Michel called for greater reciprocity and a more balanced regulatory environment. He noted that while European markets remain comparatively open, some sectors in China are notably more closed. Beijing, for its part, reaffirmed its openness to European companies and urged the EU to reduce interference and foster a fair, transparent environment for Chinese enterprises. This stance aligns with China’s broader effort to sustain economic ties while navigating a complex geopolitical landscape. The conversations emphasized mutual interests in stabilizing trade relations, ensuring fair competition, and creating conditions conducive to long-term cooperation across both regions.