China will host the 12th round of China-EU high-level strategic dialogue from April 13 to 15, as announced by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Wednesday. According to Xinhua, Josep Borrell, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, will visit China at the invitation of Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang.
In addition to the EU delegation, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock will also make an official visit to China from April 13 to 15, Xinhua reported. During her visit, Baerbock and Qin will jointly chair the sixth round of China-Germany strategic dialogue on diplomacy and security, as stated by the spokesperson.
The timing of this dialogue comes after French President Emmanuel Macron's statements on the EU. According to Reuters, during a recent interview, Macron emphasised Europe's strategic autonomy and suggested that the EU should reduce its reliance on the US. He argued that Europe should become the third superpower alongside the US and China, and cautioned against being pulled into a crisis over Taiwan driven by an "American rhythm and a Chinese overreaction".
His statements were made during a trip to China that was intended to demonstrate European unity on China policy.
Macron received criticism for his remarks, as many European nations value their relationship with the US. Even some of Macron's closest allies in France recognised that he had misspoken.
"There's a problem with the president's communication. It's a disaster," one Macron ally said, according to Reuters.
"The idea now is to reassure the Americans and tell them there is nothing new and that on Taiwan, we have the same position as before," said a senior French diplomat.
"The challenge, I think, will ultimately not be with the Americans. I believe it will be more complicated with the Europeans, particularly the Baltics, Nordics, and Eastern Europeans."