China and the Netherlands have committed to strengthening cooperation and communication to address “global challenges,” with a focus on bolstering broader China-EU ties to tackle issues like climate change and the green transition, according to a pool report.
This pledge comes after tensions between the two countries eased in recent months, following the Netherlands’ announcement in January that it would expand export controls on semiconductors from April 1, a move prompted by pressure from the United States to restrict shipments to China.
During a meeting in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Dutch counterpart, Caspar Veldkamp, that China is willing to contribute to China-EU relations and the recovery of the world economy. Wang stated that China is ready to enhance communication and dialogue with the Netherlands and deepen practical cooperation.
Veldkamp conveyed that the European Union and the Netherlands are eager to collaborate with China on addressing shared global challenges. He expressed hope that the visit would facilitate deeper cooperation on matters such as climate and green transition, upholding the multilateral system, and women’s rights.
Veldkamp also mentioned that Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof is looking forward to a potential visit to China later in the year.
The pool report did not mention semiconductors.
China has consistently criticized the United States’ strategy of pressuring allies like the Netherlands and Japan to implement export controls targeting Chinese access to advanced chips and chipmaking equipment. China views these curbs as an example of countries “expanding the concept of national security and abusing export controls,” which it believes seriously threatens the stability of global semiconductor supply chains.
The Netherlands initially introduced national export license requirements for semiconductor equipment in 2023, under pressure from the United States, and these restrictions have been expanded several times since then.
Despite the export measures, Dutch chip equipment company ASML, which ships lithography machines to China, has stated that the restrictions would not affect its business outlook.
