context: The 62nd Munich Security Conference took place from 13–15 February 2026. As in previous years, Mme Fu Ying 傅茔 former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs reflected on her experience at the event.
Rubio's gentle pressure on Europe
Mme Fu Ying 傅茔 former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs states that, in comparison with US Vice President JD Vance's sharp critique of Europe at the 2025 MSC (Munich Security Conference), and to the surprise of many, the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, was courteous and polished; his speech was exemplary.
Yet, she admits, although Rubio's tone was warm, closer reflection shows that the policy signal was essentially identical to that delivered by Vance: Europe must abandon its entrenched liberal and globalist convictions and align more rapidly with Washington's strategic and policy adjustments across alliance tasks, interests and values. This was not mere reassurance but pressure in a different form, argues Mme Fu. Europeans appeared somewhat relieved by Rubio's relatively measured tone, even if it was 'harsh intent in gentle words', she notes.
the PRC amid transatlantic turbulence
The PRC's growing international influence was evident in the expanded Chinese delegation and the prominence of PRC-related topics across the MSC's sessions, states Mme Fu. European participants expressed interest in hearing more Chinese perspectives.
However, she admits that Europe continues to view the PRC through a dual lens: partner and competitor. Ukraine and relations with Russia remain its primary security focus, followed by restructuring transatlantic ties. Recalibrating relations with the PRC appears less urgent, and longstanding differences persist. Whether Europe can formulate a China policy grounded in its own independent interests remains uncertain, she states.
She calls American statements on the PRC 'cautious' and acknowledges that although the PRC has resisted US tariffs and tech pressures, the competitive core of Washington’s Asia-Pacific strategy remains intact.
Japan's representatives highlighted a perceived 'China threat' and linked European and Indo-Pacific security. In Mme Fu's eyes, their rhetoric echoed historical patterns in which smaller powers exploit great-power competition.
turbulence opens a window for the PRC
Mme Fu is confident that the turbulence and restructuring of the international order open a window of opportunity for the PRC to play a more constructive role, shaping regional peace, strengthening Global South solidarity, advancing technological cooperation, and stabilising major-power relations.
Europe remains an important potential partner, she maintains, calling on both sides to deepen exchanges, reduce barriers, enhance mutually beneficial development and build strategic trust, advancing partnerships for peace, growth and reform.