EU and China Advocate for Multilateralism Amid Economic Uncertainty at Davos
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urges collaboration with China as Donald Trump re-enters US political landscape.
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on January 21, 2025, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, articulated a strategy of seeking new alliances following the return of Donald Trump as President of the United States.
Her remarks indicated a willingness to cooperate with countries that share mutual interests, extending a particular emphasis on strengthening ties with China.
Von der Leyen underscored the European Union's commitment to pragmatic engagement while maintaining core principles and protecting EU interests.
Although she did not directly address President Trump, who is scheduled to participate in the forum via video link later this week, von der Leyen reaffirmed support for the Paris Agreement on climate change, which Trump has moved to exit, a decision reminiscent of his first term in office.
The focus on climate agreements was mirrored by Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, who succeeded her on stage, emphasizing the need for multilateral dialogue to preempt trade conflicts.
In her address, von der Leyen communicated that Europe's approach would include not only traditional allies but also countries with aligned interests.
She announced plans for diplomatic visits, including an upcoming trip to India, and expressed readiness to deepen the relationship with China.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also addressed the forum, advocating for free trade, describing it as foundational to prosperity and cautioning against trade isolationism.
Ding Xuexiang echoed these sentiments, urging against protectionism and highlighting the lack of victors in trade wars.
Donald Trump's recent proposal of new tariffs affecting Mexican and Canadian imports was noted as an escalation, with potential implications for Chinese products, though Trump mentioned no immediate actions for China during his most recent statements.
Simultaneously, the ongoing situation in Ukraine remains tense, as outlined by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who also attended the forum.
The U.S., under Trump, has provided essential military and economic support to Ukraine.
However, concerns are rising in Kyiv regarding the potential conditions accompanying Trump's avowed conflict resolution efforts.
In the United States, legal challenges emerged against a decree signed by Trump aiming to revoke 'birthright citizenship,' guaranteed by the 14th Amendment.
Democratic states, including California and New York, have filed lawsuits in response, arguing the unconstitutionality of the decree.
As the forum continues, geopolitical experts and global leaders discuss the implications of these developments, the potential shifts in international economic policy, and the broader impacts on global trade and diplomacy.
Her remarks indicated a willingness to cooperate with countries that share mutual interests, extending a particular emphasis on strengthening ties with China.
Von der Leyen underscored the European Union's commitment to pragmatic engagement while maintaining core principles and protecting EU interests.
Although she did not directly address President Trump, who is scheduled to participate in the forum via video link later this week, von der Leyen reaffirmed support for the Paris Agreement on climate change, which Trump has moved to exit, a decision reminiscent of his first term in office.
The focus on climate agreements was mirrored by Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, who succeeded her on stage, emphasizing the need for multilateral dialogue to preempt trade conflicts.
In her address, von der Leyen communicated that Europe's approach would include not only traditional allies but also countries with aligned interests.
She announced plans for diplomatic visits, including an upcoming trip to India, and expressed readiness to deepen the relationship with China.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also addressed the forum, advocating for free trade, describing it as foundational to prosperity and cautioning against trade isolationism.
Ding Xuexiang echoed these sentiments, urging against protectionism and highlighting the lack of victors in trade wars.
Donald Trump's recent proposal of new tariffs affecting Mexican and Canadian imports was noted as an escalation, with potential implications for Chinese products, though Trump mentioned no immediate actions for China during his most recent statements.
Simultaneously, the ongoing situation in Ukraine remains tense, as outlined by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who also attended the forum.
The U.S., under Trump, has provided essential military and economic support to Ukraine.
However, concerns are rising in Kyiv regarding the potential conditions accompanying Trump's avowed conflict resolution efforts.
In the United States, legal challenges emerged against a decree signed by Trump aiming to revoke 'birthright citizenship,' guaranteed by the 14th Amendment.
Democratic states, including California and New York, have filed lawsuits in response, arguing the unconstitutionality of the decree.
As the forum continues, geopolitical experts and global leaders discuss the implications of these developments, the potential shifts in international economic policy, and the broader impacts on global trade and diplomacy.
