The EU Strategic Compass identifies and defines China in three dimensions: as a strategic partner, an economic competitor, and a systemic rival.

Omissions

• The exact wording in the Strategic Compass is 'partner for cooperation' rather than 'strategic partner.' The document was adopted by the European Council on 24-25 March 2022.

Sources

• PrimaryA Strategic Compass for Security and Defence - EEAS (PDF)China is a partner for cooperation, an economic competitor and a systemic rival.
• PrimaryEU-China Relations factsheet - EEASThe EU sees China as a partner for cooperation, an economic competitor and a systemic rival.
• SecondaryEurope's Strategic Compass: Merits and Shortcomings - IAIThe document contains the already liturgical mantra of China as a 'partner', 'competitor' and 'strategic rival'.