As French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna arrives in Beijing, the China-EU relationship feels like a high-stakes TikTok dance: one step toward cooperation, two steps back on trade disputes. 🕺💼 The EU's anti-subsidy probe into Chinese electric vehicles has sparked claims of 'protectionism,' while China's new visa-free policy for travelers from France, Germany, and four other European nations aims to sweeten the deal. But can these moves balance the scales?
Trade Tensions Heat Up 🔥
'The EU's probe reflects anxiety over China's EV dominance,' says Prof. Liu Baocheng, highlighting how green tech rivalry is reshaping global markets. Philippe Le Corre adds: 'De-risking isn't decoupling – but trust is fragile.' Meanwhile, China's retaliatory measures remain a sword of Damocles over EU exporters.
Visa-Free Wave 🌊
China's decision to welcome passport holders from six EU countries mirrors K-pop's global charm offensive – a soft-power play to counter political friction. 'This isn't just about tourism,' notes Prof. Joav Toker. 'It's people-first diplomacy for long-term influence.'
As Colonna's visit unfolds, the billion-euro question remains: Can Brussels and Beijing navigate this Squid Game-level challenge without blowing up economic ties? 💣💶 Stay tuned.
