Hey there! 🌍 Ever feel like Europe's at a crossroads? According to a recent Bloomberg opinion piece, Europe and Germany have a golden chance to show the world how it's done by embracing challenges instead of hiding behind protectionism.
While the U.S. is getting all defensive about Chinese-made electric vehicles and clean tech (talk about a plot twist! 😅), German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is taking a different route. His recent visit to the Chinese mainland signals a focus on opportunity over fear.
Fun fact: Cars are still Germany's biggest export! 🚗 Major European automakers like Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz sell about a third of their cars in China. BMW's Chairman Oliver Zipse puts it best: \"Free trade needs to be our North Star, our guiding principle.\" Couldn't agree more! 🌟
Zipse also points out that Chinese vehicle exports aren't hurting Europe. In fact, they align with the EU's principles. So why the fuss? It's time to level up and see competition as a chance to innovate and get better. 💪
The piece throws some shade, noting it's ironic that the U.S.—once the champion of free trade—is now pulling back. Maybe it's time for Europe to lead by example and embrace the spirit of open markets and collaboration. What do you think? 🤔
Reference(s):
Europe should avoid naked protectionism of the U.S.: Bloomberg
cgtn.com
