Over the next week European leaders will discuss how to deal with the world`s rising powers - first at the informal Gymnich foreign ministers` meeting in Brussels (Friday 10th - Saturday 11th September); then at the European Council meeting (Thursday 16th September). There will then be an EU-China summit on the 6th October, again in Brussels.
After months of financial turmoil, how should the EU deal with a confident and strong China?
In a memo to Europe`s leaders, ECFR senior policy fellow Francois Godement and ECFR director Mark Leonard argue that the financial crisis may have increased the EU`s leverage when it deals with Beijing.
Godement and Leonard argue that:
* The financial crisis has left China more dependent on European capital markets, so that it can hedge against overdependence on the US. It also needs Europe`s markets for its exports.
* The EU needs to define what it wants from China. Its short list should include an open Chinese economy; capital investment into Europe; security; and human rights.
* Europe should set up a taskforce to deal with China: this would set collective priorities, coordinate European governments, build expertise, and demonstrate that the EU is serious about improving its game when it deals with Beijing and other strategic partnerships.
Quelle: The European Council on European Relations
ecfr.eu/content/entry/commentary_stronger_than_it_thinks_it_is/
