BRUSSELS (Reuters) – Tensions over trade, investments and minority rights are preventing China and the EU from agreeing a joint declaration at a summit next week, multiple sources in Brussels said on Friday, sapping a European push for greater access to Chinese markets.
Alarmed by potential Chinese dominance of strategic European industries, EU leaders last month sought to prepare for the April 9 summit – flagged as an opportunity to cement bilateral ties – by agreeing what they said was a more assertive stance toward Beijing.
By diplomatic convention, joint statements are issued at the conclusion of high-profile bilateral summits to formalize policy.
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