Chinese leader Xi Jinping emphasized to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte that attempts to restrict China’s access to technology will not hinder the country’s progress. This comes after the Netherlands imposed export licensing requirements on the sale of machinery used to make advanced processor chips, following the United States’ lead in blocking Chinese access to such technology. Xi warned against the creation of scientific and technological barriers, stating that China’s development will not be halted by external forces.
Dutch company ASML, the world’s only producer of machines using extreme ultraviolet lithography to make advanced semiconductors, saw China become its second-largest market in 2023. This accounted for 29% of its revenue as Chinese companies rushed to purchase equipment before the licensing requirement came into effect. Prime Minister Rutte, following his meeting with Xi, emphasized the importance of measures not targeting specific countries and limiting impact on the overall economic relationship. He refrained from disclosing specifics of the talks with Xi.
During the discussions, the war in Ukraine emerged as a key topic, with Rutte asserting to Chinese leaders the direct security threat posed by Russia’s actions. He urged China to leverage its influence discreetly on Russia to alter the course of events. ASML, the largest company in the Netherlands, recently expressed concerns over anti-immigration policies affecting its ability to hire talent, prompting government officials to ensure the company remains in the country. While protecting ASML’s interests is crucial, national security remains a priority, as highlighted by Trade Minister Geoffrey van Leeuwen.
China has accused the U.S. of hindering its economic development by restricting access to technology, prompting Xi to launch initiatives for developing domestic high-tech products. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin criticized the U.S. for coercing other countries into imposing technological blockades against China under the guise of national security. The issue of NATO and its relationship with Asia did not arise in the talks, despite Rutte being a leading candidate to head the alliance. China has previously criticized NATO for exacerbating regional tensions and encroaching into the Asia-Pacific region.
While Rutte’s discussions with Xi did not touch upon NATO or its Asian ties, the focus remained on addressing the war in Ukraine and navigating economic and technological challenges. China’s neutral stance on the conflict, coupled with its support for Russia, has strained relations with Europe. Rutte stressed the need for China to recognize the broader security implications of the conflict in Ukraine, highlighting the potential threat to Europe if Russia’s actions are left unchecked. ASML’s significance in the global technology landscape has underscored the delicate balance between economic interests and national security concerns in the Netherlands’ discussions with China.
