Xi Jinping declines EU-China 50th anniversary summit invitation

China's President Xi Jinping has declined an invitation to attend a summit in Brussels marking 50 years of EU-China relations. Instead, Premier Li Qiang will represent China, raising skepticism in the EU about China's commitment to cooperation. The summit's significance has led the EU to expect Xi's attendance, contrasting with the usual practice of the premier attending in Brussels. Tensions have increased between the EU and China, particularly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine and ongoing trade disputes. The EU continues to address trade imbalances and has opened an anti-dumping investigation into Chinese exports. Discussions about rescheduling the summit and representation levels are ongoing, but the relationship remains strained.