Volker Perthes – Dimensions of rivalry: China, the United States, and Europe

Abstract

The U.S.–China rivalry has become a guiding paradigm of international relation that can only be understood in its multidimensionality. Europe is not an equidistant observer of this conflict: European views of China have become much more critical, particularly with regard to human rights, China’s increasingly assertive regional posture and its perceived attempts to export its authoritarian political model. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased rather than mitigated mistrust. For Europe, the idea of “decoupling” from China is not an option. Rather Europe is developing its own instruments for a more coordinated China policy. It will likely continue to see China both as a competitor and as a multilateral partner and at the same time seek close coordination with the Biden administration on most international issues, including relations with China.