The context of EU–China relations has dramatically changed over the past years. The many opportunities that cooperation with China presents are only one side of the coin. Mounting challenges and diverging perceptions on and approaches to global and domestic affairs risk undermining the effectiveness of the bilateral dialogue. It is crucial to minimise all misperceptions and overcome any lack of understanding in the EU–China bilateral relationship, now more than ever.
The EU & China Think-Tank Exchanges project, coordinated by the European Policy Centre (EPC) with the cooperation of EGMONT–The Royal Institute for International Relations, the China Institute of International Studies (CIIS) and the Center for China and Globalization (CCG), aims to strengthen and stimulate a dialogue between think tanks and research institutes across the EU and China.
Over a period of three years, the EPC and its think tank partners encourage experts, analysts and policymakers from Europe and China to discuss issues of common interest, such as post-COVID-19 cooperation, climate action and the environment, the global economy, digitalisation and connectivity, human rights and peace, or security in international affairs.
Through a series of structured exchanges between intellectuals and strategic thinkers, the project promotes EU–China dialogue and supports mutual understanding and joint action across several relevant and cross-cutting policy areas and issues of mutual concern.
This paper's completion came to fruition due to the dedication of the Europe in the World team and many colleagues from the EPC. Special thanks to Raúl Villegas for his valuable feedback and editorial support, Elixabete Arrieta for her assistance during the final stages, and Craig Ellis for ensuring smooth administration of the EU & China Think Tank Exchanges project. Deep appreciation goes to everyone who contributed, making this a collective achievement. Lastly, heartfelt gratitude to Ivanina Valeva-Hamdi, whose indispensable guidance was crucial to this project's success.
Read the full paper here.