The Government’s approach to China 5 China’s development, whatever its direction, impacts the world, the EU and Sweden in virtually every area. Many global challenges can only be solved in cooperation with China. The Government supports a broad dialogue with China. Sweden’s ability to influence is based on measures taken in our country, and on cooperation primarily in the EU and rulesbased international cooperation grounded in international law. Against this background, the Government presents its integrated approach to the work it undertakes on matters relating to China. The Government will be guided by the following principles: • • • • • Always build on the interests and values of Sweden and the EU as a whole in dealings with China. Harness the opportunities that China’s development offers and manage the challenges the country presents us with, including by developing legislation when necessary. Increase collaboration on matters relating to China within and between the public sector, business and civil society. Promote stronger EU cooperation in matters relating to China, especially in security and defence policy, trade, technology, innovation and digital transformation, climate and environment, multilateral cooperation and human rights. Increase knowledge of conditions in China. In view of the last point above, the Government will initiate work to examine how best to achieve knowledge enhancement, including through the establishment of a Swedish knowledge centre on China. In the continuing work in specific areas, the Government intends to adopt the approach outlined below. 5.1 Security and defence policy The importance of China to global security is growing. The country’s strategic interests extend to Europe; its activities in different areas must be treated with due attention. • 14 Sweden’s national security interests, defined in the national security strategy and through the security and defence policy, must guide every aspect of Sweden’s relations with China that has a bearing on Sweden’s security. Regarding collaboration that occurs between Swedish and Chinese actors, it is essential to consider the risks that such collaboration may pose from a national security and defence perspective; this applies equally to business and innovation investments, technological cooperation, academic exchange and research, and other forms of cooperation between Chinese and Swedish actors.