Cooperation over confrontation

MA XUEJING/CHINA DAILY Trust, stability and mutual benefit should form the cornerstone of EU-China economic relations President Donald Trump's return to the White House has brought Europe and China to a crossroads in their economic relationship. European stakeholders have long raised concerns about unequal market access — pointing out that Chinese companies often enjoy open access to EU markets, while European companies face restrictions in China. A balanced approach — where the EU coordinates with the US on legitimate concerns but also defends its right to dialogue and trade with China — will serve Europe best. If, for example, the EU and China manage to agree on a sectoral deal — say, a green tech partnership that eliminates tariffs on environmental goods and sets joint investment funds for clean energy projects — both sides will see proof that cooperation works, inspiring further collaboration. If China's recently announced 2025 Action Plan for Stabilizing Foreign Investment is implemented well and European companies visibly benefit, it will reassure EU investors that China is serious about openness.