China's Xi Snubs EU Summit, Sending Premier Instead

Chinese President Xi Jinping has declined an invitation to visit Brussels for a summit marking the 50th anniversary of EU-China diplomatic ties.

Instead, Beijing has informed EU officials that Premier Li Qiang will attend the meeting with the presidents of the European Council and Commission. Traditionally, such summits alternate locations, with the Chinese premier attending in Brussels and the president hosting in Beijing. Xi's decision may signal diplomatic tensions or a strategic shift in China's engagement with the EU.

The move comes amid ongoing trade disputes and geopolitical challenges between China and Europe.