Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi dialed up diplomacy this week, urging Austria to deepen cooperation with China and slamming U.S. trade policies as 'economic bullying.' During a phone call with Austrian counterpart Beate Meinl-Reisinger, Wang emphasized the need for China and the EU to defend global trade rules 🔍📉.
Austria's Friendly Stance
The Austrian FM reaffirmed the country's commitment to a 'consistent' China policy, including adherence to the one-China principle. Meinl-Reisinger hinted at collaboration in tech and green energy, calling China a 'key partner' in tackling climate change 🌱⚡.
U.S. Tariffs Under Fire
Wang didn’t hold back on Washington’s recent moves: 'Unilateral tariffs are like throwing sand into the gears of the global economy.' He framed China as a defender of the UN-centric global order, pledging to 'keep sharing opportunities' through open markets 🛑🌍.
EU-China: Frenemies?
The call comes as Europe debates its economic ties with Beijing. While both sides agree on preserving multilateral trade systems, tensions linger over subsidies and competition. 'Think of it as a high-stakes group project,' Wang suggested, urging unity against protectionism 🤝💡.
