The EU must act boldly and confidently so as not to become a victim of US President Donald Trump’s trade wars, protect its interests and values from an increasingly assertive China, and confront a constant security threat from Russia, said future head of the European Council, Charles Michel.

I firmly believe the European Union should play a leading role on the global stage,” Michel, who is still prime minister of Belgium, said in his first major speech since being chosen by his fellow heads of state and government to lead the Council beginning December 1.

“If we don't, others will. And they will do it in their own interests not ours,” Politico reported quoting Michel.

"Brexit is having a serious impact on the welfare of this and future generations — let's not forget that," he said. "I sincerely hope that the United Kingdom will reach a conclusion soon because people and businesses both in Europe and the U.K. need a satisfactory resolution.”

Michel also urged the EU to stand its ground in the face of China, which he noted "is acting with increased self-confidence and assertiveness.”

"While China defends some traditional institutions, we know it also uses them to achieve its own strategic advances," he said.

"China is also acting more assertively in places like Africa, and even in Europe," Michel added. "So we need to engage them as our strategic partner. But we must do so robustly and without naivety, in defense of our interests and values." He also said the EU must confront the security threat from Russia "on the eastern border and in the south of Europe.”

"Russia remains a neighbor too," he said. "And we must deal with this reality."