欧洲卡中国光刻机脖子，中国却在意欧洲稀土需求，这是为何？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the geopolitical tension between China and Europe, particularly focusing on the interdependence of China's rare earth resources and Europe's advanced technology, highlighting a new era of global cooperation and competition [5][40][44]. Group 1: Geopolitical Context - Europe has restricted the export of advanced lithography machines to China, which raises questions about China's reliance on Europe for technology [3][5]. - The interdependence is illustrated by the fact that 80% of Europe's and 90% of the world's rare earth supply is closely linked to China, indicating a deep reliance rather than simple trade [13][14]. - The article emphasizes that both sides are in a standoff, with Europe using technology as leverage while China holds the resource card [11][14]. Group 2: Technology and Resources - The EUV lithography machine, produced by ASML, is described as a pinnacle of human engineering, requiring contributions from multiple countries, making it nearly impossible for any single nation to replicate [16][18][20]. - China's rare earth elements are termed "industrial vitamins," essential for various technologies, including electric vehicles and military applications [9][11]. - China has developed a highly efficient and cost-effective rare earth separation and purification industry, which is a significant competitive advantage [25][27]. Group 3: Strategic Responses - China is pursuing a dual strategy: a direct approach to overcome technological barriers and an alternative approach to innovate using new methods, such as the "ice etching" technique developed by a research team [34][38]. - The article suggests that if China's alternative methods succeed, they could fundamentally disrupt the existing lithography technology framework [39]. - The ongoing standoff is seen as a transition from a technology-dominant era to a more balanced global landscape where both sides must reassess their strategies and dependencies [40][42][44].