2025 marks the fiftieth anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the European Union (and its predecessors) and the People’s Republic of China. This half-century milestone offers a unique opportunity for reflection, at a moment when the international system itself is undergoing profound transformation. As the global order shifts from unipolarity to multipolarity, the importance of EU–China relations has continued to grow. Yet the trajectory of this relationship has been far from linear, marked by cycles of engagement and estrangement, expectation and disappointment, cooperation and rivalry, especially in recent years.
For five centuries, the world has been dominated by a Western-centred order, constructed and maintained largely by Europe and later reinforced by transatlantic institutions. In recent decades, however, the rapid rise of Asia – above all China, but also India and other emerging economies – has introduced new dynamics to global governance. China’s ascent as the world’s second-largest economy, its role as a driver of innovation and its expanding presence in international institutions have challenged traditional assumptions about hierarchy, power and legitimacy in world politics. Against this backdrop, EU–China relations are no longer a matter of bilateral cooperation alone; they are embedded in the larger question of how the international order can adapt to multipolar realities.
The European Union has long struggled to reconcile the dual character of China as both partner and competitor. On one hand, cooperation with China is essential for addressing global challenges – climate change, technological transitions and economic interdependence, and significant for the economic prosperity of each other. On the other, growing concerns about systemic rivalry, market access, security of critical infrastructure and a divergence in values have increasingly shaped Brussels’ official discourse. The result has often been a relationship defined more by ambiguity and uncertainty than by strategic clarity and predictability. Although both sides try to show their common willingness to normalise bilateral relations, the most recent EU–China summits (2025) have underscored this ambivalence, with expectations of breakthroughs giving way instead to mutual suspicion and political discord.
This collection of studies, published on the 50th anniversary of EU–China diplomatic relations, is conceived as a contribution to both scholarly debate and policy reflection. The volume seeks to provide a balanced and multifaceted understanding of the evolution of Sino- European relations, situating them within the broader context of global transformation. By bringing together leading Chinese, Hungarian and other European scholars, we aim to present a dialogue that transcends national perspectives and sheds light on the common ground – as well as the divergences – that define this partnership.
The volume is structured around three main pillars. The first section, China–Europe Relations, examines the EU–China relationship in its broadest sense, providing an overview of political, economic and strategic dimensions. The contributions here reflect on how China and Europe might together shape a stable multipolarity, highlighting both the opportunities and the structural constraints of cooperation.
The second section, China–CEEC Relations, turns to the regional dynamics of Central and Eastern Europe. This part illustrates how the China-CEE cooperation emerged from Hungary and became an important, albeit contested, platform for dialogue. The authors analyse the specific challenges and opportunities facing individual countries – from the electric vehicle supply chain to the political pressures shaping national trajectories – and situate them within the broader EU–China framework.
The third section, China–Hungary Relations, provides a case study of one of the most active European states in engaging with China. Hungary’s policy of “Eastern Opening” has sought to diversify its international relations, positioning itself as a bridge between East and West. This part of the volume highlights both the historical depth and the contemporary relevance of Hungarian–Chinese ties, and explores how national strategies intersect with European policymaking.
Taken together, the contributions underscore a critical conclusion: EU–China relations cannot be understood solely in terms of bilateral exchange. They are part of a larger process of global rebalancing, in which questions of connectivity, technological transformation and strategic autonomy will play decisive roles. Undoubtedly, China is now an important driver of multipolarisation. If the EU wishes to remain a relevant actor in the emerging multipolar order, it must adopt policies that are pragmatic, future-oriented and respectful of diversity in historical experience and political culture, and seek cooperation with China.
The purpose of this book is not only to analyse but also to offer guidance. At a time when misunderstandings and politicisation increasingly shape transcontinental dialogue, it is our hope that this collection will serve as a resource for policymakers, scholars and students alike. By presenting diverse perspectives, we seek to encourage informed debate, foster mutual respect and contribute to shaping EU–China relations in a more constructive direction.
The 50th anniversary of EU–China relations is therefore not only a moment of commemoration, but also a call for renewal. Europe and China face the shared responsibility of together shaping a stable, multipolar world order – an order that must be inclusive, balanced, stable and based on mutual benefit. The task presents challenges, but so do the opportunities. We trust that the insights contained in this volume will assist decision- makers in navigating this complex landscape and will inspire further academic dialogue in the years to come.