'a correct perception' of the PRC

context: Speaking about Beijing's expectations of Brussels, PRC experts often stress the need to 'maintain an objective understanding and correct positioning'. They argue that the EU's current perceptions and policies toward the PRC are driven more by sentiment than by rational assessment, and call on Europe to move beyond the 'cognitive trap' of viewing the PRC as a 'systemic rival'. They urge the EU to approach the relationship with greater height, breadth and depth and to improve its understanding of the PRC through sustained, in-depth dialogue.

Wang Yi 王毅 Foreign Minister on 8 March 2026 spoke of the PRC–Europe ties at a press conference on the margins of the Two Sessions. Wang stated 

  • relations between the PRC and European countries have been strengthening since last year
    • two-way trade surpassed US$1 tn
    • over two million European tourists visited the PRC under visa-free policies
    • European leaders made numerous visits
    • interactions have become more active
    • a number of new cooperation agreements have been signed
  • PRC–EU relations are driven by shared interests and enjoy stability from mutually beneficial partnerships
  •  the PRC has a clear stance on developing relations with Europe
    • the PRC believes that Europe
      • should naturally be a pole in a multipolar world
      • is an important force underpinning the stability of the international order
      • is a key partner for the PRC in its modernisation
    • for bilateral relations to remain steady and positive, it is essential for Europe to have a correct perception of the PRC
      • there is a growing consensus among wise minds in Europe that the PRC is not a 'competitor', but a 'global partner'
        • this is particularly true among young people
  • the PRC and Europe are mutually complementary in trade and economics
    • a dynamic balance is entirely within reach amid growing ties
    • interdependence is not a risk
    • intertwined interests are not threats
    • openness and cooperation will not weaken economic security

Wang concluded that the PRC is glad to see European friends stepping out of the 'small attic' of protectionism and walking into the 'fitness club'of the PRC market to build their strength and competitiveness.