Beijing(Reuters)- The scheduled trip of Josep Borrell, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, to China next week has been abruptly canceled by the Chinese government, according to a statement from an EU spokesperson on Tuesday. No specific reasons were provided for the cancellation, which comes at a time when Europe is actively working to mitigate the risks associated with its close economic ties with China, a relationship Brussels has identified as both an “economic competitor and a systemic rival.”
In a written statement to Reuters, spokesperson Nabila Massrali expressed disappointment, saying, “Unfortunately, we were informed by the Chinese counterparts that the envisaged dates next week are no longer possible and we must now look for alternatives.” The Chinese foreign ministry has not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter.
The purpose of Borrell’s visit to Beijing, originally scheduled for July 10, was to hold discussions with his Chinese counterpart on various strategic issues, including human rights concerns and Russia’s involvement in the Ukraine conflict. During a speech at the World Peace Forum in Beijing, EU Ambassador to China Jorge Toledo announced that China and Europe are planning two in-person dialogues in September, focusing on the economy and trade, as well as digital matters. The dialogues would precede a leaders’ summit scheduled for the end of the year.
Toledo emphasized the need for progress in the relationship between China and Europe, stating, “We want to engage with China but we need progress and we need it this year.” He also revealed that Borrell’s canceled trip in April was due to his COVID-19 diagnosis.
In his prepared speech for the postponed April visit, Borrell had highlighted the importance of China’s commitment to peace in Ukraine for establishing trust between the EU and China. While China has expressed its intention to mediate in the Ukraine conflict, its position paper released in February received lukewarm responses from both Russia and Ukraine.
Notably, this is the second time this year that a high-level EU official’s visit to China has been canceled. In April, Frans Timmermans, the EU climate chief, was unable to travel to China due to his contraction of COVID-19.
The sudden cancellation of Borrell’s trip raises concerns about the future of China-EU relations, particularly regarding the economic aspects of the partnership. European leaders will now need to explore alternative options to address the pressing strategic issues and maintain dialogue with China.
