MERICS Foresight Workshop: Asessing the future trajectory of Europe-China relations

The relationship between Europe and China is at an inflection point. Relations have been overshadowed by economic tensions, China’s position on Russia’s war in Ukraine, and the ongoing dispute over access to China’s rare earth minerals for European companies, among many other points of friction. The weakening of the transatlantic alliance since US President Donald Trump came to office in January 2025 has introduced another layer of complexity. Despite attempts at cooperation on specific issues, such as climate change, the prospects for a structural improvement in EU-China ties seem slim.

To discuss these issues, MERICS organized a foresight workshop in Brussels. The workshop brought together about 20 participants from EU institutions, policymaking, and think tanks to discuss the trajectory of EU-China relations. Held in a closed-door, off-the-record setting, this interactive workshop encouraged informal discussions on the future of China’s international behavior and Europe policy, seeking to identify the trends and challenges that will most directly impact the EU and EU-China relations.

The workshop was co-organized by MERICS and the European External Action Service's (EEAS) Divisions for China and for Policy Planning and Strategic Foresight and took place on September 22 at the EEAS in Brussels.

For more information on the event, please check MERICS website here