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2w ago

EU Softens China Rhetoric as Climate Credibility Wanes

The bloc turned to engagement with Beijing after presenting only a non-binding 2035 climate pledge at the U.N.

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Chinese Premier Li Qiang speaks as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen looks on during the EU-China Business leaders symposium at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, July 24, 2025. Mahesh Kumar A./Pool via REUTERS/File Photo
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Overview

  • At the U.N. General Assembly, Ursula von der Leyen and China’s Li Qiang emphasized cooperation as both sides sought to cool trade tensions pressured by President Donald Trump’s tariffs.
  • Von der Leyen urged China to use its influence to help end the killing in Ukraine and to encourage Russia to enter negotiations.
  • She adopted a conciliatory tone on trade, acknowledging EU concerns over export controls, market access and overcapacity while praising China’s willingness to engage.
  • The EU arrived without a binding 2035 emissions target, submitting a non‑binding statement indicating a 66.3%–72.5% cut from 1990 levels and promising a legal target before COP30.
  • Analysts highlight China’s growing climate leverage, citing at least $210 billion in overseas clean‑manufacturing investments since 2022 and the possibility its emissions peak earlier than the official 2030 horizon.