Europe reassesses global role amid China, US influence
The President of the European Commission, in an interview with "Die Zeit," emphasizes that Europe must confront new challenges, including the growing influence of China and the USA. "I am currently in countless discussions with heads of state and government from around the world who want to work together with us on the new order," says Ursula von der Leyen.
What do you need to know?
- Ursula von der Leyen stresses that Europe must prepare for new geopolitical challenges, including the expanding roles of China and the USA.
- The European Union plans to boost defense investments, allocating $908 billion (800 billion euros) for this purpose.
- Europe aims for greater economic independence by developing new markets and trade partnerships.
What are the main challenges for Europe?
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, highlights in her conversation with "Die Zeit" that Europe faces numerous challenges. "We don't have bros or oligarchs making the rules," she notes, referring to the distinctions between Europe and other global powers. She adds that with the increasing prominence of China and the USA, Europe must be prepared for new geopolitical challenges.
Von der Leyen underscores the need to build its own defense capabilities and enhance economic competitiveness. Europe must be prepared for a new reality, she asserts, emphasizing the importance of joint action by all 27 member states.
What steps is the European Union taking?
In her interview with "Die Zeit," von der Leyen was asked whether the European Union is now becoming the most important global guarantor of Western values.
"The West as we knew it no longer exists. The world has become a globe also geopolitically, and today our networks of friendship span the globe, as you can see in the debate about tariffs," says Ursula von der Leyen.
She adds that "Europe is known for its predictability and reliability, which is once again starting to be seen as something very valuable."
"A positive side effect is that I am currently having countless talks with heads of state and government around the world who want to work together with us on the new order," emphasizes the head of the EC.
Europe opens up to new markets
Von der Leyen was also asked if this marks the end of close cooperation between the USA and the European Union.
"I firmly believe that Europe can do that. Let's look back at the last decade: the banking crisis, migration crisis, Brexit, pandemic, energy crisis, Russia's war against Ukraine. All these are serious crises that have really challenged us, but Europe has emerged bigger and stronger from every crisis. And people have learned that when there are big crises, Europe certainly provides some of the big answers. That gives you confidence. And secondly: Europe has always managed the crises as a team," says von der Leyen.
