Xi Jinping's European Journey: Defending Ties with Russia

Xi Jinping embarks on a diplomatic journey across Europe starting this Sunday, poised to champion China's steadfast alliance with Russia. His itinerary includes pivotal stops in Ukraine-supporting France, followed by visits to Serbia and Hungary, both of which maintain close relations with the Kremlin. As the world's second-largest economy, China aims to fortify its political and economic bonds in Europe, strategically countering strained relations with its rival, Washington.

Analysts caution against hopes of persuading Xi to sever ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite the warm reception from French President Emmanuel Macron upon Xi's arrival in Paris. Discussions between the leaders, including talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, are anticipated to be complex. China's stance on the Ukraine conflict remains non-committal, resisting pressure to impose sanctions on Russia. Yet, Beijing holds significant leverage over Moscow, potentially influencing its course of action, as acknowledged by French diplomatic sources.

Xi's voyage marks China's reemergence onto the global stage post-Covid isolation, following Macron's visit to China in 2023, where he expressed hopes for China's role in resolving the Ukraine crisis. While Macron's comments were divisive within Europe, they garnered appreciation from Beijing. As Xi navigates discussions in Europe, attention shifts between geopolitical concerns and economic interests, with China seeking to address EU probes into alleged trade imbalances.

While Macron and von der Leyen prioritize discussions on Ukraine, Xi aims to address EU investigations into China's trade practices, condemning them as protectionist. As tensions simmer, European leaders are urged to convey the repercussions of China's support for Russia. Xi's itinerary also includes symbolic visits to Serbia and Hungary, where China has invested substantially in economic projects, challenging the traditional EU stance on Russia.

In Belgrade, coinciding with the anniversary of the 1999 NATO bombing of the Chinese embassy, Xi is poised to send a defiant message against Western influence. Meanwhile, his meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban underscores China's efforts to cultivate alliances in Central Europe, countering EU policies. Orban's vision of a "sovereignist world" aligns with China's pursuit of mutually beneficial economic partnerships, further solidifying their ties amidst global geopolitical shifts.