Chinese President Xi Jinping has rejected an invitation from the European Union to attend a summit in Brussels marking the 50th anniversary of EU-China diplomatic relations, signaling a deepening rift between the two powers.

According to reports, Beijing has opted to send Premier Li Qiang in Xi’s place, a move seen as a diplomatic downgrade amid escalating tensions over trade and geopolitical issues.

The EU had hoped Xi’s presence would underscore the milestone of half a century of ties, but Beijing’s decision reflects a shift in priorities. T

ensions have intensified since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with the EU accusing China of supporting the Kremlin. Additionally, the EU’s imposition of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports last year sparked retaliatory measures from China, including barriers on EU products like brandy. These trade disputes, coupled with differing stances on global security, have strained the relationship.

Typically, the Chinese premier attends Brussels summits while Xi hosts them in Beijing, but the EU had sought the president’s attendance for this symbolic occasion. An EU official noted that informal talks on the summit’s date and representation continue, but China’s Foreign Ministry has not commented.

Xi’s absence highlights Beijing’s focus on domestic and strategic priorities over mending ties with Europe, leaving the summit’s tone uncertain as both sides navigate a complex and increasingly adversarial dynamic.