The evolving relationship between China and the European Union (EU) has gained renewed momentum following a phone conversation between Chinese President Xi Jinping and European Council President Antonio Costa on January 14. This interaction, initiated by Costa, marks the first official communication between Xi and the newly appointed EU leader. Described by Costa as “constructive,” the discussion underscores the shared ambition of both leaders to enhance strategic mutual trust, foster open cooperation, uphold multilateralism, and propel China-EU relations to greater heights.

This dialogue sets a promising tone for China-EU relations in 2025, with potential positive implications for global peace, stability, and prosperity. As Xi emphasized during the call, China remains confident in its partnership with the EU and hopes for reciprocity in building a relationship based on trust and mutual benefit.

President Xi’s comments resonated widely across European media, interpreted as a gesture of goodwill from Beijing and a constructive signal to Brussels. Analysts have noted that Europe, in turn, seeks to convey its openness to engaging with China, even as it navigates complex dynamics with the United States. The emphasis on becoming “trustworthy cooperation partners” reflects the shared belief that partnership thrives on both like-mindedness and the ability to respect differences.

However, this relationship has faced challenges in recent years. Fundamental trust between the two sides has been strained, necessitating urgent repairs. Many in China perceive certain European policies as inconsistent with the principles of friendship and cooperation. For instance, the EU’s imposition of unilateral sanctions on Chinese companies, coupled with its continued call for increased Chinese investment, has raised eyebrows in........

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