On May 14, 2025, at the invitation of the British Studies Center of Beijing Foreign Studies University, Professor Zhao Huaipu, Director of the European Studies Center at China Foreign Affairs University, delivered a lecture titled “The Evolution of Transatlantic Relations and China-US-Europe Relations” at the School of English and International Studies.

    Professor Zhao began by outlining the complexity of transatlantic relations, emphasizing that they constitute not only a crucial component of contemporary international relations but also a complex system in their own right. He highlighted the diversity of actors involved and the multiple dimensions and levels of interaction that characterize the transatlantic relationship.

    Tracing the evolution of transatlantic relations since the end of World War II, Professor Zhao provided a chronological overview of the continuous adjustments and distinct characteristics that have emerged in different periods. He noted a new trend in current transatlantic relations, shifting from looseness toward fragmentation. According to Professor Zhao, “Europe now stands at a historic crossroads, experiencing a painful process of adaptation: it must explore and adjust to a new model of transatlantic security cooperation with greater self-reliance and diminishing American protection, adapt to increasing frictions and intensifying competition with the US across multiple fields, and at the same time face mounting pressure to take sides between China and the United States.”

    Addressing the rising influence of China and the trilateral dynamics among China, the US, and Europe, Professor Zhao remarked that the EU, on the one hand, seeks to de-risk and reduce economic dependence on China, while still relying on the US for security, thus maintaining a willingness to coordinate its China policy with the US and seeking opportunities for mutual benefit. On the other hand, the EU cannot ignore the risks associated with aligning too closely with the US on China-related issues. Caught in a complex web of overlapping and conflicting interests with various global actors—especially major powers—the EU’s foreign policy choices are inevitably constrained. While the EU adheres to its “triple positioning” approach toward China, this does not mean abandoning its engagement strategy; avoiding decoupling from China remains a fundamental policy bottom line.

    In the subsequent Q&A session, Professor Zhao addressed topics such as the current trend of “de-globalization,” value differences between the US and Europe, and European security, providing insightful analyses and responses to questions from the audience.