EU faces tough talks with Xi

European Union chief Charles Michel announced yesterday he would meet President Xi Jinping in China next week as Europe seeks to confront Beijing over human rights and Taiwan, while maintaining trade ties.

"We will discuss global challenges as well as subjects of common interest," Michel tweeted.

His spokesman added: "Against the backdrop of a tense geopolitical and economic environment, the visit is a timely opportunity for both EU and China to engage."

The trip comes amid a lively debate between European Union capitals as to how to handle relations with China, amid concerns over Beijing's rights record, threats to Taiwan, trade pressure on some EU countries and support for Russia.

The United States is pushing its Western allies to align themselves against China but some EU members with important trade links resist.

Michel walks a line between Germany, with its important economic interests in China, and EU members like Lithuania, which has angered Beijing by building links with Taiwan.