Over the past two decades, the economic and political relations established between the People’s Republic of China and the European Union (EU) have formed one of the most significant strategic partnership networks on a global scale. Shaped by a “win-win” approach in the early 2000s, these relations deepened rapidly, especially after China’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Europe leveraged China’s production capacity and cost-effective resources as a driving force in its digitalization and green transformation processes. Meanwhile, China strengthened its position in the global supply chain through access to the European market. This mutually beneficial situation enabled the parties to develop long-term cooperation. However, certain asymmetric dependencies and strategic concerns that emerged in the process have necessitated more cautious policymaking between the two sides.[1]
One of the most critical elements in Europe’s relationship with China is its high dependency on rare earth elements and high tech sectors. These elements, which are essential components in advanced technological products such as electric vehicles, wind turbines, mobile phones, and defense systems, are largely supplied by China. This situation has become a key factor directly affecting the EU’s ability to implement its long term energy transition goals. At times, China has sought to gain strategic leverage by imposing export restrictions on these resources or by slowing down licensing procedures for certain products. In this context, Europe has turned to the search for alternative sources in order to ensure supply security.[2]
In mid-2025, statements made by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the G7 Summit marked a period of redefinition in relations with China. Von der Leyen asserted that China was attempting to control the global production chain, violating intellectual property rights, and creating an unequal competitive environment for European companies.[3] These statements indicate the beginning of a significant shift in the EU’s perception of China. However, this transformation does not signal a rupture, but rather reflects a desire to make the relationship more fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial.
Another noteworthy development in this process is Europe’s plan to establish a joint strategic reserve for rare earth elements. Statements made by Industry Commissioner Thierry Breton on this issue have revealed that the EU is aiming not only for short term economic solutions but also for long term structural reforms to achieve strategic autonomy.[4] Through these reserves, the EU aims not only to be prepared for potential restrictions from China but also to become more resilient to price fluctuations in global markets. In this context, new mining investments in Africa and South America have also emerged as potential areas of cooperation for Europe.
Some European circles seeking to deepen cooperation with China have also criticized the strategic pressure exerted by the United States on Europe. In particular, the unilateral tariffs imposed during the Trump administration and the pressure on European technology companies led the EU to reassess its role within the Atlantic Alliance. An analysis published by Al Jazeera argued that Europe should now pursue a foreign policy that prioritizes its own economic and geopolitical interests, rather than remaining solely aligned with Washington’s security paradigm.[5] This suggestion encourages a more balanced and independent approach in relations with China.
In this context, statements by Fabio Panetta, one of the leading figures of the European Central Bank, have drawn attention. Panetta stated that the U.S. strategy of distancing Russia from China has harmed Europe’s geopolitical interests.[6] According to Panetta, Europe should not be a passive actor in global competition, but an active player that defines its own game plan. This assessment underscores the need for Europe to pursue a more selective and multilateral strategy in its relations with both the United States and China.
The EU’s effort to redefine its relationship with China without completely severing ties has also been reciprocated by the Chinese side. Technical talks held between European and Chinese officials in June 2025 indicated a mutual willingness to resolve existing issues.[7] The mutual understanding in addressing restrictions in areas such as electric vehicle production, dairy trade, and green energy investments created a positive atmosphere ahead of the summit. Additionally, it was observed that China is willing to take confidence-building measures in its relations with Europe.
In light of these developments, the agenda of the EU-China summit scheduled for July 2025 will be quite extensive. The parties are expected to negotiate issues such as strategic raw materials, technology transfer, mutual protection of investments, and competition law regulations. Additionally, both sides’ focus on green technologies in line with global climate goals is increasing opportunities for environmental cooperation. This collaboration holds strategic importance not only in trade but also within the context of sustainable development.
All these developments demonstrate that the relationship between Europe and China is evolving rather than breaking apart. While maintaining commercial and strategic ties with China, Europe is simultaneously taking structural steps to enhance its own autonomy. In this context, the relationship has shifted away from the past model of “rigid dependency” toward a more reciprocal, balanced, and sustainable structure. The EU’s goal is to build a position in its relations with China that is independent from external pressures and based on its own values and interests.
In conclusion, the relationship between Europe and China has been redefined in the new era within the framework of strategic autonomy and global cooperation. Von der Leyen’s firm statements have heralded a new period in which Europe more assertively defends its interests. New topics based on mutual benefit have been established across many areas, from rare earth elements to climate cooperation, technology transfer to diplomatic dialogue. In this new era, the EU is determined to maintain its relationship with China through a constructive, long term, and conflict-free approach. This has both enhanced Europe’s strategic resilience and contributed to a multipolar balance on the global stage.
[1] Philip Blenkinsop & Laurie Chen, “Rare earth access is the European Union’s priority at China summit”, Reuters, https://www.reuters.com/world/china/rare-earth-access-is-european-unions-priority-china-summit-2025-06-19/ (Date Accessed: 23.06.2025).
[2] Alice Li, “Chinese and EU trade officials hold talks after von der Leyen outburst”, South China Morning Post, ttps://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3315242/chinese-and-eu-trade-officials-hold-talks-after-von-der-leyen-outburst, (Date Accessed: 23.06.2025).
[3] Jorge Liboreiro, “Ursula von der Leyen’s return as China hawk shuts down talk of diplomatic reset”, Euronews, https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/06/21/ursula-von-der-leyens-return-as-china-hawk-shuts-down-talk-of-diplomatic-reset, (Date Accessed: 23.06.2025).
[4] “EU needs rare earths strategic reserves against China threat, commissioner tells paper”, Reuters, https://www.reuters.com/world/china/eu-needs-rare-earths-strategic-reserves-against-china-threat-commissioner-tells-2025-06-23/, (Date Accessed: 23.06.2025).
[5] Zabala, Santiago & Gallo, Piergiorgio. “Why the EU should choose China over the US”, Al Jazeera, https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2025/6/20/why-the-eu-should-choose-china-over-the-us, (Date Accessed: 23.06.2025).
[6] “ECB’s Panetta says EU a victim of US efforts to distance Russia from China”, Reuters, https://www.reuters.com/world/china/ecbs-panetta-says-eu-victim-us-efforts-distance-russia-china-2025-06-18/, (Date Accessed: 23.06.2025).
[7] Ibid.
