Commission stresses ‘genuine’ wish for more R&D ties to China

But EU institution says increased cooperation requires ‘rebalancing of relations’

The European Commission has said it has a “genuine” wish to increase EU collaboration on research and innovation with China, but that achieving this would require movement from the Chinese government to overcome obstacles.

“It requires a rebalancing of our relations and more efforts to reach a level playing field and reciprocity. It also requires converging on ethical issues and scientific standards. Cooperation on innovation will only be possible in a fair and non-distortive ecosystem,” the Commission said on 22 January.