EU Foreign Affairs Nominee Takes Strong Position on China-Russia Relations

Kaja Kallas, the former Estonian Prime Minister and candidate for the EU’s top diplomatic post, has delivered a forceful message regarding China’s support of Russia during her confirmation hearing in Brussels.

“The conflict’s current intensity would not be possible without China’s backing of Russia,” Kallas declared during her three-hour parliamentary hearing. She advocated for imposing greater consequences on China for this support.

Key Points from Kallas’s Hearing:

1. Global Alliance Concerns

• Highlighted growing cooperation between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea
• Warned about these nations exploiting Western societies’ openness
• Emphasized China’s evolution into more of a competitor than partner

2. Economic Security

• Called for reducing European dependence on China in strategic sectors
• Criticized slow progress on EU trade agreements
• Warned that China fills economic voids where Europe hesitates

3. African Influence

• Noted overlapping patterns of Russian military presence and Chinese investments
• Advocated for better promotion of European humanitarian efforts in Africa
• Called for stronger European engagement to counter Russian and Chinese influence

4. Ukraine Conflict

• Stressed the importance of preventing Russian success to avoid encouraging other aggressors
• Addressed concerns about potential changes in U.S. support
• Argued that American interests in containing China should reinforce support for Ukraine

The article suggests her appointment comes at a crucial time for EU foreign policy, as Europe faces multiple international challenges and changing global dynamics. Her stance indicates a potential shift toward a more assertive EU foreign policy, particularly regarding China and Russia.