Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-10-18 10:32Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the implications of China's rare earth export controls and the EU's response, highlighting the tension between the EU's desire for strategic autonomy and its reliance on the US for support against China [1][2][5]. Group 1: EU's Response to China's Export Controls - The EU, under pressure from the US, has decided to respond strongly to China's rare earth export controls, with plans to coordinate with the G7 for a united front [1][2]. - Despite the strong rhetoric, EU officials express underlying concerns about their dependence on Chinese rare earths, particularly in high-tech industries like semiconductors and electric vehicles [1][5]. - The EU's initial silence and subsequent response indicate a lack of confidence in its ability to act independently from the US [2][5]. Group 2: Strategic Autonomy and Internal Divisions - The statements from Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen reveal the EU's struggle for strategic autonomy, as he emphasizes the need to consult with the US before taking action against China [2][5]. - France and Spain's positions reflect a desire for strategic independence, suggesting that not all EU member states are willing to follow the US's lead on China [5][7]. - The meetings between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and European officials signal a potential for cooperation, contrasting with the EU's confrontational stance [3][7]. Group 3: Economic Dependencies and Risks - The article highlights the critical role of rare earths in Europe's high-tech manufacturing, with companies like ASML heavily reliant on Chinese supplies [1][5]. - The EU's attempts to pressure China may backfire, as the region's economic interests are closely tied to Chinese resources, raising concerns about the consequences of following the US's approach [5][7]. - The ongoing geopolitical tensions underscore the need for the EU to reassess its strategy and consider the risks of economic isolation from China [5][7].