Trust key to China-EU relations

Editor's note: As China and the EU mark 50 years of diplomatic relations, their partnership remains crucial in navigating global uncertainties. Three experts share their views on the issue with China Daily.

This year, May 6 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. This will take place at a significant moment for both of them, as well as for the entire world. The old, dangerous geopolitics — based on power, protectionism and spheres of influence — are returning. While it's not the first time that comprehensive relations between China and the EU have been tested by global political, economic and technological changes, the current shifts are, at the same time, something unique.

The United States, which has been the pillar of the Western world, the driving force behind globalization, and a cornerstone of global stability since World War II, is now calling all of that into question. For its friends and allies, including the EU, this poses an unprecedented challenge. But it has also made one thing increasingly clear: the EU must become more united in order to become more self-reliant.