In light of recent developments in its relations with China, the European Parliament has approved a report that identifies the country not only as an economic competitor but also as a threat to Europe's security. This report from the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee has been presented ahead of Maroš Šefčovič, the European Commissioner for Trade's trip to Beijing.
New Approach of the European Parliament
The report, which is set to be voted on Wednesday, states that China should be recognized as a communist dictatorship that poses a threat to the free world. Hilde Vautmans, the author of the report, pointed out in a debate that Šefčovič must go to Beijing with the strongest possible mandate. She emphasized that Europe has economic power and that it is time to leverage this power.
In this debate, representatives from various parties emphasized that merely addressing China's excess capacities is not enough, and that human rights violations in the country, escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait, and its role in the Ukraine war must also be addressed. Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, a Spanish representative from the European People's Party, noted that China's behavior jeopardizes European interests.
Concerns About Human Rights and Security
Parliament members specifically referred to China's treatment of the Uyghur minority in Xinjiang, who are systematically held in camps and prisons. In a resolution in 2024, Parliament concluded that these actions may be considered crimes against humanity, although it did not directly use the term "genocide."
Furthermore, Michael Gahler, another representative from the European People's Party, pointed to China's influence in Taiwan and called for attention to China's role in supporting Russia's economy during the Ukraine war. Representatives also emphasized the need to recognize the imbalanced relationship Europeans have with China, viewing this as a sign of greater convergence in European policymaking towards China.
Vautmans stated after the debate: "This is no longer just the position of the European Parliament or one of the political groups. There is now an increasing recognition that Europe needs a more coherent policy towards China: open to dialogue and cooperation, but much more prepared to defend its interests if necessary."
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