Still, the question remains whether the power bloc will continue to exist in practice, says De Wijk. “If self-interest plays a role in individual countries, the firm language can sometimes be diluted.” This self-interest can be seen especially in Europe: Germany has a major interest in trade with China – that is, for example, the most important sales market for the German car brands BMW and Volkswagen. “So the country can be economically affected in a confrontation.”
But not only Germany can be reluctant, France too. “The French are afraid of a new Cold War,” says Van de Roer. “But most countries in Europe are relatively soft in their condemnation of China. They do condemn China on human rights, but are not yet ready for an anti-China policy because of the economic interests. cohesive policy. Yet Biden has gotten them in a slightly tougher line.”
Many of the other agreements that were made last weekend are in line with current EU policy, says De Wijk. “The EU also wants a level playing field, vaccines for developing countries, and international trade agreements. The summit was a boost in that area.”
Closer in each other’s arms
And it is precisely these agreements that can lead to the EU taking a tougher stance towards China, says Van de Roer. “If Americans and Europeans align on many issues, it could have a stimulating effect on the West’s interrelationship, including its attitude to China.”
The US will continue to put pressure on the EU for a tougher policy against Beijing after this week. Van de Roer: “In the absence of a clear EU strategy, it can become difficult for Europe to resist American pressure. Moreover, China’s autocratic behavior can drive the EU and the US closer to each other.”
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