Send to Kindle
Chinese President Xi Jinping is embarking on a six-day tour of Europe amidst escalating trade tensions with the European Union and concerns over China's support for Russia. The trip, Xi's first to the continent since 2019, includes visits to France, Serbia, and Hungary.
During the visit, discussions are expected to address various geopolitical issues, including Russia's conflict in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict. Additionally, trade tensions between China and the EU will be a focal point, with Xi aiming to strengthen Beijing's ties with Budapest and Belgrade.
Chinese President Xi's visit coincides with heightened scrutiny from the EU over Chinese trade practices. The EU has initiated investigations into various Chinese products and companies, raising concerns in Beijing about the potential impact on trade relations.
Despite EU concerns, France has emphasized the need to rebalance trade relations with China. French officials have expressed concerns over trade deficits and called for a more pragmatic approach to EU-China relations.
While trade issues will dominate discussions, French President Emmanuel Macron is also expected to address China's support for Russia. France aims to maintain open channels of communication with China while advocating for EU policies that address China's support for Russia.
In Hungary and Serbia, Xi will focus on deepening bilateral cooperation, particularly in infrastructure projects. China's Belt and Road Initiative will feature prominently, with projects like the Belgrade-Budapest Railway aimed at expanding Chinese influence in Central and Eastern Europe.
Hungary, in particular, has sought significant Chinese investment, especially in the electric vehicle sector. Hungarian officials have expressed opposition to EU investigations into Chinese EVs, highlighting the potential impact on Hungary's manufacturing industry.
Overall, Xi's visit is seen as an opportunity for China to strengthen its relationships with middle powers like France and consolidate its influence in Europe.
TikTok began restoring its services in the United States on Sunday after President-elect Donald Trump announced his plans to revive the app once he assumes office on Monday
A former TikTok executive has filed a lawsuit alleging that she was coerced into signing an oath of allegiance to China's "socialist system" and national interests
Rents in Sofia, Varna, and Burgas are seeing significant growth, but they remain among the most affordable in Europe
The US Department of Commerce is preparing to introduce new regulations aimed at restricting China’s access to cutting-edge artificial intelligence
China has issued a strong warning to the United States, labeling Taiwan as the "first red line that cannot be crossed" in their bilateral relations
New car sales across the European Union dropped by 1.9% in November, reflecting the ongoing challenges in the automotive sector, as weak demand continues to impact the region's largest car manufacturers
Moldovan President Maia Sandu has reiterated the country's readiness to assist the breakaway Transnistrian region
Bulgaria has received almost 32 billion leva in European Union funds, with the majority allocated to projects in Sofia
A knife attack at a grammar school in Spišská Stará Ves, a small town in northern Slovaki
The European Commission reaffirmed its commitment to achieving visa-free travel to the United States for all European Union citizens
Preliminary data from Frontex indicate a sharp 38% decrease in irregular border crossings into the EU in 2024, bringing figures to their lowest level since 2021, when migration was still influenced by the COVID pandemic. Despite ongoing migration pressure
Switzerland has agreed to join the EU’s Military Mobility Initiative, a project designed to streamline the movement of military personnel and equipment across EU member states
Bulgaria's Perperikon: A European Counterpart to Peru's Machu Picchu
Bulgarians Among EU's Least Frequent Vacationers, Struggling with Affordability
