Some sharp contrasts, as well as broad similarities, between the two major European countries’ political environments were revealed by the latest elections. They are likely to be a shaping force in geopolitics.

A shift to the right has plunged leaders of major EU countries into a trust crisis that threatens to undermine the consensus between Europe and China on major global issues, such as climate change, globalization and world peace.

After an eight-month investigation, the European Union has announced that it will impose tariffs as high as 38.1% on electric vehicles (EVs) from China to offset the unfair advantages created by Chinese government subsidies. In retaliation, China immediately launched an anti-dumping probe into pork imports from the EU. The two sides are now negotiating a solution to the trade dispute in Beijing.

The transformations spurred by the election are evolutionary rather than revolutionary. This year’s contest was less dramatic than earlier ones and the outcomes were more incremental.

On June 12, the European Union announced new provisional levies on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), with the tariff level to be based on estimates of how much state support an EV exporter receives. The new tariffs follow from a months-long investigation into China’s use of financial subsidies, and they will be imposed on top of the 10% tariff that the EU already has in place. They are “provisional” because they might be revised downward if Chinese producers can offer evidence that the support they receive is less than estimated. Separately, if the EU can reach an agreement with China to reduce the volume of Chinese EV exports to Europe, the new tariffs may not be implemented.

The 2024 EU’s parliamentary elections warrant deeper scrutiny, highlighting the interplay of national issues and geopolitical factors. The outcome mirrors local political landscapes, suggesting potential changes in EU leadership and policies. The EU’s geopolitical impact remains limited while presenting some challenges for EU-China cooperation and beyond.

Facing a choice of autonomy or continued dependence on the United States, some factions on the continent seek to avoid that stark choice. In pursuit of a European pillar within NATO, the EU appears to be navigating a middle path.

Hungary's strategic partnership with China represents a bold pivot aimed at enhancing its geopolitical and economic standing amidst an era of great power competition. But to safeguard itself from geopolitical storms Hungary aims to work within the EU and punch above its weight to catalyze European strategic autonomy.

For a robust Sino-European partnership, Beijing must recognize European interests, particularly the EU's strategic autonomy and security concerns, and address economic competition while fostering collaborative ventures to repair and enhance bilateral relations.

As China and Europe prepare to celebrate their 50th anniversary of diplomacy, relations are at a critical moment. President Xi’s visits enhance the symbiosis between the parties and will add precious momentum to the healthy development of East-West relations.