Xi Jinping Declines Invitation to EU-China 50th Anniversary Summit

The Chinese president's decision underscores tensions between Beijing and Brussels over trade and geopolitical issues, including China's stance on the Ukraine war.

• Chinese President Xi Jinping has declined an invitation to attend a summit in Brussels commemorating 50 years of EU-China diplomatic relations.
• Premier Li Qiang will represent China at the summit, as is customary when the event is held in Brussels, though EU leaders had hoped Xi would attend given the milestone occasion.
• Tensions between the EU and China have escalated in recent years, particularly over China's perceived support for Russia following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
• Trade disputes have further strained relations, with the EU imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports and Beijing responding with trade barriers and a WTO complaint.
• Discussions are ongoing between EU and Chinese officials regarding the summit's timing and level of representation, but no final decisions have been announced.

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