China's Xi Jinping is visiting Europe for the first time in five years – his goodwill tour will be an uphill struggle

When a country’s leader visits another country, it is often met with a warm welcome. However, as Chinese President Xi Jinping embarks on a six-day tour to Europe, he will face a different reception compared to his last visit in 2019. Views on China in Europe have shifted significantly, with growing economic grievances and concerns about China’s global ambitions. The European Union has recently launched trade probes into China’s wind turbines and medical equipment procurement, and Germany and the United Kingdom have arrested individuals for alleged espionage linked to China. Xi’s trip is seen as an opportunity to address these concerns and win back some critics. However, major breakthroughs are unlikely unless Xi is willing to make key concessions. Throughout his trip, he will meet with European leaders to discuss trade distortions, subsidies, and security issues. While some European countries welcome China, others are becoming more cautious. The ongoing war in Ukraine is expected to be a topic of discussion, with China positioning itself as a mediator. However, concerns about China’s exports of dual-use goods to Russia could strain relationships with European nations. Xi’s visits to Serbia and Hungary, non-EU member countries, are expected to be less contentious as they have close ties with China. Overall, Xi’s trip will highlight divisions within Europe and Europe-China relations, with the outcome likely to have significant implications for trade and diplomatic ties.