US President-elect Joe Biden calls for stronger trade coalitions against China, as EU seems close to a deal
- Comments come as European Union appears close to striking a separate deal with Beijing
- Remarks underscore the degree to which Biden’s China policies may align with those of Donald Trump
US President-elect Joe Biden called on Monday for stronger coalitions against China on the trade and economic fronts, even as the European Union appeared close to a bilateral investment agreement with Beijing.
“As we compete with China and hold China’s government accountable for its abuses on trade, technology, human rights and other fronts, our position will be much stronger when we build coalitions of like-minded partners and allies,” said Biden, who will assume office on January 20.
“On any issue that matters to the US-China relationship – from pursuing a foreign policy for the middle class, including a trade and economic agenda that protects American workers, our intellectual property and the environment – to ensuring security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, to championing human rights – we are stronger and more effective when we are flanked by nations that share our vision,” Biden said.
Representatives of the 27 EU member states were briefed by negotiators who had “reported on recent positive developments in the negotiations with China including on labour standards” – an area that had been a sticking point in earlier talks, according to an EU diplomat with knowledge of the discussions.
As part of the deal, European businesses are expected to gain unprecedented access in telecommunications, finance, and electric and hybrid cars.