China-U.S. relations are feeling the strain of the conflict in Eastern Europe. China does not welcome war, but the United States must abandon its posture of coercion — forcing others to choose sides. Cooperation will be required to restore peace.

Some believe the U.S. has the ability to take on a two-ocean strategy — the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific — but China-Russia issues loom large. They will guide the approach to China by the West.

The EU’s Global Gateway project is an answer to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, and one that the EU hopes will provide a more liberal-led alternative to China’s investments. Whether or not a values-based approach to development will remain to be seen.

Europe is working out its own path in light of China-U.S. tensions. It will only cooperate with the U.S. on China where it suits its own politics and interests and with its own approaches and tools.

When the leaders of Europe and China speak, there will be an understanding that each side is navigating the U.S.’s opposition to the latter’s agenda.

2021 has shown how the EU will seek to maintain a competitive and cooperative relationship with China amidst tensions between the U.S. and China.

How should China deal with Europe? The answer is becoming increasingly complex. Changes in approach are necessitated by Europe’s effort to redefine its role as a mere international trade actor. It seeks to become a major geopolitical power in its own right, independent of the United States.

After moves by France, Germany and the Netherlands, the introduction of the EU Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific should come as no surprised. Two questions emerge: Is this new version of the strategy a follow-up to the United States or an independent strategic consideration? And how should China respond?

The historic completion of the Pelješac bridge in Croatia marks the first time a Chinese firm and the EU have completed a project together, setting the stage for the BRI’s implementation in Eastern Europe.

A recent trade deal between the EU and China has stalled in Europe’s governing body, a possible result of China’s soft power shortcomings that affect its public perception outside of the Pacific region.