Europe’s interests require that it strongly back the global trading system and establish multilateral independence toward other countries, especially China. Strategically autonomy, however, means the EU must break away from its reliance on Washington.

Europe has taken a strategic stance when it comes to its relationship with the U.S. and with China. While the U.S. has strengthened ties with its European allies to contain China, Europe also supports China’s monetary ambitions regarding the RMB.

As a geopolitical confrontation with global implications in the European region, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has an important and complex impact on China-EU relations.

Economic globalization — with more participants — is in Europe’s interest. Following the lead of the United States and kicking Russia and its allies out of the international system will only cause global fragmentation.

The EU-China summit seemingly left both sides with a bad taste in their mouths, but it could be the start of a new relationship dynamic between the two powers.

Europe’s fear, exacerbated by heavy dependence on Russia for energy, has been exposed more clearly by the conflict. Along with other factors, the fear is likely to result in a stricter and more selective EU approach to China.

The continuing attacks on Ukraine should be a point where global leaders should be able to align on creating a solution - but outside of a vacuum, tense relations and posturing are getting in the way.

As the global community turns against an increasingly isolated Russia, China’s silence on the topic becomes more easily interpreted as support for Putin’s war. The untenable stance will be sure to drive more friction between the West and China and puts China’s foreign interests in further jeopardy.

While the issue is complex for China and the EU, one attainable step would be to cooperate on humanitarian relief for Ukraine — delivering medical and sanitary supplies. They should also press for a cease-fire.

In their upcoming summit, China and Europe should steadfastly oppose any kind of new cold war. With the Ukraine conflict increasing the risk of decoupling, the need for joint responsibility to prevent a new cold war is clear.