EU to Strengthen Global Partnerships, Support Ukraine, and Rebalance China Relations
Brussels, Belgium – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed EU ambassadors at the annual EU Ambassadors Conference, emphasizing Europe’s role in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
In her speech, von der Leyen acknowledged the end of hyper-globalization and the emergence of a more competitive and transactional global order. “Great fears are back,” she said, citing concerns over climate change, artificial intelligence, migration, and economic inequalities. “Countries are weaponizing their sources of strength against each other.”
A Strategic and Level-Headed Europe
Despite global tensions, the Commission President urged Europe to remain “level-headed” and make decisions based on strategic interests rather than nostalgia. “Where it makes sense for Europe, Europe can make it work,” she stated, highlighting the EU’s commitment to fair and transparent international partnerships.
She reaffirmed the EU’s focus on strengthening the Global Gateway initiative, fostering closer ties with the Mediterranean region, and promoting free and fair trade. She also announced upcoming diplomatic engagements, including a visit to India in February and a summit with South Africa in March.
Transatlantic Ties and China Relations
Von der Leyen underlined the EU’s deep economic and strategic ties with the United States, calling for cooperation on shared priorities while preparing for tough negotiations when necessary.
On China, she emphasized the need to rebalance trade and investment relations to safeguard European economic and security interests. “We will keep de-risking our economic relationship,” she affirmed, reinforcing the EU’s cautious approach in dealings with Beijing.
Hope in the Middle East and Humanitarian Efforts
Turning to the Middle East, von der Leyen noted that “hope – albeit fragile – has started to return.” The EU, as a key donor to Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine, is increasing its humanitarian engagement and preparing to support reconstruction efforts. “The future of this region is being rewritten today,” she added.
Ukraine: Europe’s Destiny at Stake
Von der Leyen described the war in Ukraine as the defining crisis for Europe’s future. She warned that if Vladimir Putin succeeds, he will target other nations, as seen in 2008 (Georgia) and 2014 (Crimea). “It is not only Ukraine’s destiny at stake. It is Europe’s destiny,” she stated.
The EU and its member states have provided €134 billion in aid to Ukraine, surpassing all other international contributors. Von der Leyen stressed the need for continued pressure on Russia, finalizing the EU’s 16th sanctions package, and phasing out Russian fossil fuels. She also called for faster delivery of weapons and ammunition to Ukraine, asserting: “Ukraine needs peace through strength.”
A Call to Action for Europe’s Future
Despite the challenges, von der Leyen ended on an optimistic note, encouraging Europe’s diplomats to recognize the continent’s global influence. “Much of the world sees Europe as stronger than we do. If we stay united, we are the ones who can create the conditions for a more prosperous and secure future,” she concluded.
