It is true that both EU and the U.S. are parts of the western world, and both share the interests of maintaining stable international system. But the two also have differences. Take the positions of the two on Iran nuclear issue for example. Though European countries are also concerned about potential unclear proliferation, they even need business opportunities in Iran. But previous U.S. policy in this regard had undermined their business interests. Shortly after signing the nuclear agreement JCPOA, there have been European business delegations visiting Iran every day. The eagerness actually made the difference between European countries and the U.S. and EU's dissatisfaction with the U.S. evident.

Europe is also seeking Chinese support on a wide range of issues. It is currently facing crises on three fronts -- Ukraine, refugees and debt -- which pose grave economic, social and security challenges. Europe used to depend on the U.S. to resolve these issues, but the Obama administration has proved to be a lame duck at home and even reluctant to invest resources to deal with European problems.

Though all these problems will have to be dealt with by the European countries themselves, China's support will be crucial, especially in economic terms. China is financially in better position to help by expanding investments and using its large market.

The recent Europe-China rapprochement also signifies Europe's more sincere acceptance of the reality of global power transformation. Ten years or even further back, while meeting their Chinese counterparts, European leaders and scholars would always question China on human rights issues in a manner of censorious teacher.

Things have changed greatly. European leaders have been accustomed to meeting Chinese counterparts on an equal footing and in a more polite manner. And it seems that European leaders have finally realized that China's political system and development path are of rationales.

This kind of change should be attributed to the frequent interactions in all fields, but also to the change of power on the grounds, in economic field in particularly.

While this kind of change should be appreciated and respected, it is unfortunate that European society is not keeping pace with their leaders and elites, especially in Western Europe. For instance, many media still question the legitimacy of the high level interactions between Europe and China.

The author is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit:

http://www.ccgp-fushun.com/opinion/jinliangxiang.htm

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