Xi Jinping’s return to Europe after a five-year hiatus comes amid a vastly altered geopolitical landscape, underscoring the intricate dance between diplomacy and shifting alliances. Rewind to 2019, and Xi’s visit to Italy was marked by grandeur and symbolism, with Italy’s embrace of China’s Belt and Road initiative serving as a testament to burgeoning ties. Fast forward to the present, and Xi’s reception is tempered by mounting tensions and evolving perceptions of China’s role in global affairs.
Touching down in France, Xi steps into a continent grappling with economic grievances and geopolitical uncertainties. Recent actions by the European Union, including trade probes and raids on Chinese companies, signal a growing wariness towards China’s economic practices. Moreover, apprehensions over China’s deepening ties with Russia amid the conflict in Ukraine have further fueled skepticism across European capitals.
Against this backdrop, Xi’s itinerary reflects a delicate balancing act, aiming to assuage concerns while advancing China’s strategic interests. Engagements with European leaders like Emmanuel Macron and Ursula von der Leyen provide opportunities to address thorny issues such as trade imbalances and supply chain security. However, divergent perspectives within Europe on how to approach China underscore the complexities of Xi’s diplomatic mission.
Beyond economic considerations, Xi’s visit intersects with critical geopolitical challenges, including Europe’s stance on the war in Ukraine. While Xi seeks to position China as a mediator, concerns over dual-use exports to Russia underscore the intricacies of navigating geopolitical fault lines.
As Xi journeys through France, Serbia, and Hungary, the varying receptions reflect a spectrum of attitudes towards China’s growing influence. In Serbia and Hungary, where Chinese investments have flourished, Xi aims to reinforce bilateral ties while leveraging strategic partnerships to counterbalance European skepticism. In essence, Xi’s European tour epitomizes the fluidity of global diplomacy in an era defined by geopolitical flux. As he navigates the complexities of Europe’s political landscape, Xi’s ability to forge consensus and bridge divides will shape the trajectory of China-Europe relations in the years ahead.