X+1: Differentiated Cooperation in EU-China Relations

This article examines the special relationship that a number of EU member states (together with several non-member states) have developed with the People’s Republic of China, conceptualising this development – generally known as 16+1 – as an example of informal differentiated cooperation. Against the background of the significance that relations with China have for the EU – being recognised as both a strategic partner and systemic rival – the article proceeds in three steps: first, the nature and depth of cooperation in the 16+1 format is being assessed; second, the degree to which the relations with China maintained by this sub-group of member states differ from the common positions that the EU has adopted vis-à-vis the PRC is being analysed; and, third, the impact that this case of differentiated cooperation has on the EU’s global role, in the context of the return of great power rivalry and the search for a “strategic compass”, is being identified.