The Structural Limits of the EU's China Policy

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Commentary published on The Diplomat by Daniel Balazs, Senior Research Analyst, Institute for China-Europe Studies

June 23, 2026

Following the European Council meeting on 18-19 June, Brussels remains adamant on a dual-track strategy with Beijing that pairs diplomatic dialogue with targeted trade restrictions. However, the summit failed to establish a unified or predictable strategic framework for this approach. With key member states still divided between hawkish and dovish positions, the EU's mixed signals continue to hinder the strategic trust required to secure meaningful economic compromises with China.

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https://thediplomat.com/2026/06/the-structural-limits-of-the-eus-china-policy/

Please note that views expressed by the author do not reflect the policies or positions of ICES. The views expressed by the author are personal and do not reflect the policies or positions of his affiliated institutions.