Have trade tensions scuppered EU-China talks ahead of tough Brussels decisions?

Have trade tensions scuppered EU-China talks ahead of tough Brussels decisions? June 23 meeting in Beijing postponed without warning as bilateral ties deteriorate on a near-daily basis The meeting, initially scheduled for June 23 in Beijing, will no longer take place, with no immediate date set for a follow-up, people familiar with the situation confirmed. Olof Skoog, deputy secretary general of the External Action Service – the bloc’s diplomatic arm – had been due to travel to the Chinese capital this month to lay the ground for a potential visit by top diplomat Kaja Kallas later this year. Skoog’s trip was intended as part of a series of preparatory visits that kicked off with top Asia official Erik Kurzweil last month. “As far as we know, both sides are keeping communications regarding the relevant dialogue,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on Thursday at the ministry’s regular press briefing.