The European Union is viewed quite positively in the Indo-Pacific. However, economic engagement does not necessarily translate into popularity.

Opinions are divided on whether the European Union should start preparing sanctions against China, in order to deter it from invading Taiwan.

With sanctions, counter-sanctions, and the EU-China Comprehensive Agreement on Investment on ice, there is no prospect of improving relations between Brussels and Beijing.

Safeguarding its autonomy between the United States and China was already proving difficult for the EU. But as Washington and Brussels seem to be becoming more closely aligned on how to handle Beijing’s rise, Russia and China seem to be cooperating more closely, too.