EU accuses China of seeking to reshape global order in stark new strategy paper

The European Union has sharply criticized China's global ambitions, accusing Beijing of actively seeking to reshape the international order in line with its own interests. In a newly adopted position paper, the bloc states that China is fostering a return to a logic of spheres of influence, marking some of the strongest official criticism Beijing has faced from the EU.

The document, adopted by the EU's 27 foreign ministers, identifies China as both a "key enabler" and a "crucial enabler" of Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine. This direct accusation highlights the EU's deepening concerns over Beijing's geopolitical actions and its alignment with Moscow.

The EU's strategy paper signals a more assertive stance towards China, moving beyond previous diplomatic language. It underscores the bloc's perception that China's actions are challenging the existing international system and promoting a geopolitical landscape that prioritizes national interests over multilateral cooperation. The ministers adopted the paper without making a public announcement, suggesting a deliberate and perhaps sensitive approach to releasing such strong statements.