Same with the Russia-China Relationship, the China-Europe Relationship also has No Limits by FU Cong
China Watchdog #16
Same with the Russia-China Relationship, the China-Europe Relationship also has No Limits
Source: http://comment.cfisnet.com/2023/0425/1327749.html
25 Apr 2023 by Sino-Aus Nexus
The Interviewee: FU Cong is China’s Ambassador to the EU.
Why did we select this source: FU’s interview with the Paper can be seen as an act to repair the diplomatic crisis caused by LU Shaye’s, China’s Ambassador to France, controversial comments questioning the sovereignty of former Soviet states. It is quite difficult to understand the underlying rationale behind LU’s action as his comments may have already caused ‘unrepairable’ damages to China’s new round of diplomatic charm offensive, the China-EU relations, and China’s image in the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine war. While the Chinese Government tried to distance itself from LU, the actions might be too little too late. In addition, LU has not issued an official apology, and this could further instigate the diplomatic turmoil caused by his very own comments.
Please also note that FU still used the term ‘crisis’ instead of ‘war’ when he explained China’s official stance on the Russia-Ukraine war.
Summary:
In his interview with the Paper, FU Cong responds to the concerns about China’s ‘No Limits’ relationship with Russia by saying that China develops friendly and cooperative relations with all countries based on the Five Principles for Peaceful Coexistence. He notes that China’s relationship with Russia has no limits, China’s relations with Europe also have no limits. He also warns that countries should be cautious about attempts to use China-Russia relations to undermine China-EU relations.
FU states that China supports a strategically independent Europe, saying that only an independent Europe can win more respect and contribute more to the world’s peace and prosperity. The China-Europe relations have global influence and meaning, and it must be maintained well. Europe should establish a more objective and independent view of China and a more pragmatic China policy to promote stable and long-term relations between China and Europe.
China’s relations with Europe should not be tied to the Ukraine issue, argues FU, because
China’s relations with Europe are multifaceted and should not be tied to a specific issue
China is neither responsible for nor involved in the Ukraine crisis, and China, in fact, is also a victim of it. Any accusations made against China regarding the crisis is baseless
China’s solution has been consistent: peace talks and political solutions
In response to the claim that China’s proposed ceasefire could give Russia an opportunity to defeat Ukraine, FU argues that the equilibrium between China and Europe is that the greatest effort should be made to achieve peace, regardless of any differences between China and Europe. Drawing from the re-establishment of the diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, FU says that China regards peace talk the only correct solution for the Ukraine crisis. However, FU states that China acknowledges the complexities of the Ukraine crisis and urges relevant stakeholders to engage in peace talks. Other countries should also work together with China to realise the goals of ceasefire, conflict resolution, and peace building.
Regarding the China-Europe relations, FU argues that Europe should not examine the bilateral relations from the lens of the Ukraine crisis. Europe must also not sacrifice its relations with China and China’s interests to develop the Europe-US relations.
Moving into the future, FU thinks that holding a new round of China-Europe leaders’ summit is the most important political agenda for both sides this year. There is a solid foundation and broad prospects of cooperation between China and Europe, claims FU. The two sides should further
Expand opportunities for cooperation
Deepen cooperation at a higher level
Achieve mutual benefit and win-win results
The two sides also need to
Establish constructive communication and consultation
Maintain a correct understanding of each other to properly manage differences
Keep China-Europe relations on the right track