Brussels, Belgium – November 2024 – The Dutch Foreign Minister has warned that the growing trade ties between China and Russia have a direct impact on the security of the European Union. Speaking on Monday before a meeting with EU foreign ministers in Brussels, Caspar Veldkamp emphasized that China’s ongoing support for Russia in its war against Ukraine, particularly through the sale of military-related goods, is a significant concern for Europe.
China-Russia Trade: A Security Threat for Europe
According to Veldkamp, NATO views China as a key partner for Russia, as Chinese companies have been supplying components for Russian weapons, including drones used in the war against Ukraine. He highlighted that this trade relationship poses an immediate threat to European security, and European leaders need to address this issue.
“I have raised this issue twice with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and I believe all of us as Europeans need to address this, because China must be aware that this directly affects European security,” Veldkamp stated.
The Dutch government has taken action alongside the United States, imposing a series of progressively stricter export restrictions. These measures are aimed at preventing the Dutch company ASML, a leading supplier of semiconductor lithography machines, from providing its most advanced technology to Chinese chipmakers. ASML’s equipment is crucial for the production of advanced semiconductor chips, and its dominance in the market gives the Netherlands significant leverage in the global tech sector.
Economic and Military Implications of China’s Role
Despite the export restrictions, China remains the largest market for ASML and other major American and Japanese semiconductor equipment manufacturers. Over the past year and a half, Chinese companies have expanded their capacity to produce older chips, which are not covered by the export bans, but still sufficient for many military purposes.
In fact, ASML recorded $2.94 billion in sales to Chinese firms in the third quarter of this year, setting a new sales record, though the company predicts a decline in 2025. This growing trade in older, but still militarily viable, chip technology has raised concerns among European officials about the ongoing technological and military support China is providing to Russia.
EU Ministers to Discuss Chinese Support for Russia
Veldkamp revealed that he would be discussing with other EU foreign ministers how to address China’s support for Russia. “We are discussing everything related to foreign support for Russia in its war against Ukraine, whether it’s from Iran, North Korea, or China,” he said.
The Dutch foreign minister’s comments highlight a growing concern in Europe about the strategic partnership between China and Russia and the potential security risks posed by this alliance. As the EU seeks to tighten its sanctions and export controls, China’s role in facilitating Russia’s military capabilities is becoming an increasing point of contention in European foreign policy.
