Global Impacts of China’s European Strategy and India’s Foreign Policy

Source: The post Global Impacts of China’s European Strategy and India’s Foreign Policy has been created, based on the article “Xi Jinping’s visit, a divided Europe and India’s challenge” published in “Indian express” on 8th May 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-international relation-Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.

Context: The article discusses Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Europe, where he aims to influence European countries amid their difficult decisions involving the US, Russia, and China. It highlights Europe’s challenges, including military threats and economic pressures, and how these might affect global relations, including with India. Global Impacts of China’s European Strategy and India’s Foreign Policy

What is Xi Jinping‘s European strategy?

Deepen Economic Ties: Xi plans to secure economic partnerships by promising investments. For instance, he intends to support Hungary’s growing EV industry and counter potential European sanctions on China’s EV makers.

Divide Europe from the US: Xi seeks to exploit European divisions. French President Macron favors closer economic ties with China and opposes isolating Beijing. Xi also meets leaders of Serbia and Hungary, who support China-Russia relations.

Counter European Strategies: He aims to reverse Europe’s “de-risking” strategy against China by emphasizing trade benefits.

How does Europe view the China–Russia alliance?

Concern Over Ukraine Conflict: Many European nations are wary of China’s support for Russia, given Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. France, for example, sees Putin as a significant threat to European security.

Hope for Xi’s Moderation: Some Europeans believe Xi Jinping is the only global leader who could influence Russia’s behavior. They want him at a planned Ukraine Peace Conference in Switzerland.

Divided Responses: Serbia and Hungary’s pro-Russia stances align with Xi’s objectives. Xi aims to deepen this divide, emphasizing China’s rejection of Western narratives about international law and a rules-based order.

What divisions exist in Europe‘s relationship with the US?

NATO Funding: Donald Trump criticized European NATO members for not contributing enough to defense. He insists the US shouldn’t protect those not paying their fair share.

Trade Disputes: Trump also accused the European Union of protectionism, demanding a fairer trade relationship. These complaints strain US-European relations.

Strategic Autonomy: French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized European sovereignty and advocating for a balance between the US and China, rather than simply following the US.

How does this affect India?

Complex Power Dynamics: India faces a challenge balancing relations among the US, Russia, and China. Europe’s decisions about these powers impact India’s foreign policies.

Trade and Security Impacts: Europe’s engagement with Russia and China directly affects India’s interests. If Europe increases its defense burden against Russia and counters China’s economic influence, it can shape India’s own strategies.

US Influence: The US pressures Europe to balance against Russia while also countering China’s influence in Asia, impacting India’s regional security concerns.

Strategic Opportunities: India has enhanced its relationships with key European nations like France, sub-regional groups like the Nordics, small economic groups like EFTA, and the European Union, but further strategic engagement is needed. Focusing on security issues, like Ukraine, and strengthening trade ties could benefit India’s position in global politics.

Question for practice:

Examine how European countries’ engagement with China and Russia impacts India’s foreign policies and strategic opportunities.