EU-China relations

News

published: 14.02.2025

Staying focused: Priorities for transatlantic China policy coordination

As fundamental policy shifts in Washington can be expected to again test the transatlantic relationship, this MERICS Report charts a path for the future development of a transatlantic China policy. The report outlines a pragmatic approach designed to keep the focus on three key areas for tackling the China challenge:

  • Transatlantic burden shifting
  • Market distortions
  • Technology controls

Rifts in the transatlantic partnership would add credibility to Beijing’s narrative that the East is rising, while the West is in inevitable decline. Alternatively, the authors emphasize, a well-coordinated transatlantic China policy can do a lot to build momentum for the joint interests of the United States, Europe and like-minded partners.

The paper served as input for the China related events at the 2025 Munich Security Conference.