Stars and Dragons: the EU and China

HL 76-I, Seventh Report of Session 2009-10 – Volume I: Report

Author:

House of Lords –European Union Committee

Publisher:

TSO (The Stationery Office)

Price: £17.50

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As detailed in 'Stars and Dragons: The EU and China (HL Paper 76-I)', the EU and China need a relationship based on trust and mutual respect for success. However, the Committee is concerned that the credibility of the EU as a strategic partner is regularly undermined by Member States failing to uphold EU solidarity on issues ranging from meetings with the Dalai Lama to bilateral commercial deals.

Main Concerns

Despite being united, the Committee regrets that the EU was marginalised at the Copenhagen climate change conference. The report raises concerns over the lack of results from the EU/China dialogue on human rights.

The Committee argues that the vast trade imbalances between China and the West are not sustainable; these contributed to the current economic crises.

China is not meeting many of its existing World Trade Organisation (WTO) obligations; it should address non-tariff barriers and protect intellectual property rights.

The report also raises some concerns about the influence of Chinese investment in Africa.

Recommended Improvements

The EU should continue to assert its core values in a consistent way through a frank and confidential dialogue with China.

Member States should identify key issues in which they will stand firm on a united approach to ensure China cannot play one Member State off against another.

Together with the US the EU should tackle the issue of undervaluation of the Renmimbi through the G20.

Extent	135 pages	ISBN	9780108459696
Size	A4	Price	£17.50
Format	Paperback	Published	23 Mar 2010
Availability	Colour copy: 3 - 5 days	Delivery	Delivery options and charges