Thu Jul 24 05:07:08 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by its rewrite as a news article:

**Summary:**

A high-level EU-China summit is taking place in Beijing, marking 50 years of diplomatic ties, but overshadowed by significant disagreements. Key issues include trade imbalances, EU concerns about Chinese subsidies and control of rare earth minerals, and China’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine war. The EU seeks to address these disputes, particularly China’s support for Russia and its trade practices. Human rights concerns, particularly regarding the treatment of Uighurs, will also be raised. Despite the anniversary, expectations for major breakthroughs are low, as the EU balances its relationship with China against its values and existing alliances, especially with the US.

**News Article:**

**EU and China Hold Tense Summit Amid Trade and Ukraine War Disputes**

**Beijing, China** – European leaders and Chinese officials convened in Beijing today for a summit marking 50 years of diplomatic relations, but the atmosphere was far from celebratory. The meeting, shortened from two days to one, is dominated by thorny issues including trade imbalances, China’s relationship with Russia, and human rights concerns.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa are meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang to address a growing list of grievances. The EU is particularly concerned about China’s tacit support for Russia’s war in Ukraine, with von der Leyen previously accusing Beijing of “de facto enabling Russia’s war economy.”

Trade is another major sticking point. The EU is increasingly wary of what it sees as unfair trade practices, including heavy Chinese government subsidies that flood global markets with cheap goods like electric vehicles. Brussels has imposed tariffs on Chinese EVs and has restricted Chinese companies from medical device tenders. The EU also wants China to ease export restrictions on rare earth minerals, vital for various industries.

“This Summit is an opportunity to engage with China at the highest level and have frank, constructive discussions on issues that matter to both of us,” Costa stated. “We want dialogue, real engagement and concrete progress.”

However, analysts are tempering expectations for any significant breakthroughs. Gunnar Wiegand, a former EU official, noted the complexity of the relationship, describing China as a partner, economic competitor, and systemic rival.

The EU will also raise concerns about human rights abuses, particularly the treatment of Uighur Muslims in the Xinjiang region.

While both sides emphasize the importance of dialogue, the summit underscores the growing challenges in the EU-China relationship as Brussels navigates geopolitical tensions and seeks to protect its economic interests.

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