context: Multipolarity was presented as a highlight of PRC–EU relations at the 2024 (61st) Munich Security Conference (14-16 February 2025). Used as the take-off point for a Global Times editorial, Wang Yi's 王毅 'charming' presence there was in sharp contrast to US Secretary of Defence Hegseth and Secretary of State Rubio, whose patronising versions of Trump 2.0 and MAGA views drew rebuffs. Yet Wang contrasted as well with previous PRC stances at the MSC, typified by friction in 2020 between Mme Fu Ying 傅莹 and former House leader Nancy Pelosi.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi 王毅 presented the PRC as a cooperative partner to Europe, adopting a conciliatory tone during the conference, which coincides with the 50th anniversary of China–EU diplomatic relations.
- Wang Yi stressed the PRC vision of multipolarity, positioning itself as a stabilising force and viewing Europe as a major partner rather than a rival in this system
- context for his remarks includes ongoing challenges for Europe, including
- the Russia-Ukraine conflict
- strained transatlantic relations with the US
- economic and technological competitions
- energy crisis concerns
- on PRC–EU relations, the article notes
- strong economic ties (trade growth from $2.4 billion in 1975 to nearly $800 billion currently)
- growing connectivity (19,000+ annual freight trains)
- shared interests in free trade, supply chain stability, and emerging technologies
- recent visa-free arrangements for European nations
- challenges include
- Europe's internal divisions regarding its China policy
- some European politicians' view of Beijing as a 'systemic rival'
- Europe's security dependence on the US
Despite these challenges, concludes Global Times, both parties seek to enhance cooperation, particularly in areas like climate change and AI governance, to build a more equitable global order.