A delegation of the European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs, led by Chair David McAllister, concluded a three-day mission to China on 23 July 2026, urging Beijing to use its influence on Russia to press for a ceasefire in Ukraine and to cease transfers of dual-use goods supporting Russia's war effort. The eight-member delegation, which visited Beijing and Shanghai from 21 to 23 July, met with Foreign Minister Wang Yi, National People's Congress leadership, and municipal authorities, marking the first such visit since the resumption of direct European Parliament-China contacts last year.
The mission took place against a backdrop of political and geo-economic changes, with MEPs stressing China's crucial role in international affairs and the defence of the multilateral system. The delegation reiterated calls for China to cease the transfer of dual-use goods and components to entities supporting Russia's war, stating that a country presenting itself as a force for peace cannot sustain the aggressor's economy. On trade, MEPs described the EU's record €1 billion per day deficit with China as unsustainable and called for reciprocity, a level playing field, and trust to ensure sustainable bilateral relations.
Human rights concerns were also raised, with the delegation emphasising that human rights are universal. Despite significant differences, both sides agreed on the importance of stable and balanced EU-China relations and discussed cooperation on climate action, green transition, and responsible governance of artificial intelligence. The delegation expressed hope that the visit marks the beginning of more regular and results-oriented dialogue between the European Parliament and China.
The visit follows a European Parliament Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee mission in late March 2026 and a delegation that travelled to China in May for the 43rd EU-China Inter-Parliamentary Meeting. The Foreign Affairs Committee is set to adopt its recommendation on EU-China political relations in autumn 2026.