EU Chief Diplomat Josep Borrell calls for talks between Europe and US to counter China

European Union's foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell on Wednesday had called for talks between Europe and US to counter China. According to international reports, Borrell said that two sides should make a common cause in order to "defend values and interest." During talks with 27 EU Foreign Ministers and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday, EU chief diplomat said that y need a more robust strategy for China, which also requires better relations with rest of democratic Asia. 

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Speaking to media, Borrell suggested launching a "distinct bilateral dialogue" focused on China and challenges it poses to EU and US by its "actions and ambitions". He said, "For us, it's important to stay toger with US in order to share concerns and to look for common ground to defend our values and our interest." However, US has t yet responded to his suggestion. 

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US-China tensions

tensions between US and China started with US President Donald Trump and his administration claiming that vel coronavirus is a man-made disease and it emerged at a virology laboratory in Wuhan. However, China had claimed that re is evidence to suggest that virus originated at a seafood market in Wuhuan. Trump has blown hot and cold on China since before he became President. From basing a part of his campaign on stopping China's purportedly inexorable rise to becoming world's biggest ecomy, to his constant back-and-forths about trade deal with China, as well as his attacks on Huawei. 

This also comes against backdrop of India and China clashing at LAC in biggest flashpoint, involving an estimated 63 casualties thus far from both sides.

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(With ANI Inputs)