(This is a slightly edited version of a speech given at the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs and the EU Democracy Shield Special Committee session “China’s Influence in the EU and Globally” on 5 November 2025). Let me sum up my argument first: China’s challenge to the global governance is primarily driven by its impressive… Continue reading Reshaping global governance: China’s strategy to influence international organizations and reframe international law
With China and the US agreeing to suspend the enforcement of strict export controls on Chinese rare-earth materials, the EU can breathe a sigh of relief. But the episode underscores that if the EU wants to shape its own future, it must confront its critical vulnerabilities. Key takeaways: The truce between Presidents Xi Jinping and… Continue reading The EU is stuck between China and a hard place
Hungary remains Beijing’s closest ally within NATO, maintaining continuity in its China policy even after Orbán’s ally Donald Trump returned to the White House. Key takeaways: Although Prime Minister Viktor Orbán skipped the Beijing Victory Day parade, a flurry of high-level contacts continues. The partnership is underpinned by expanding economic ties, led by major Chinese… Continue reading Hungary sticks to its guns on China
The newly adopted Spanish external action strategy portrays China in a rosy light and places it on the same level of importance as the US, reflecting the ripples of the Transatlantic rift under Trump 2.0. Key takeaways: Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s numerous visits to Beijing and his public rejection of Donald Trump’s policies paved the… Continue reading What’s behind Spain’s pivot to China
The economic weekly Trend repeatedly serves as a vehicle for Chinese propaganda. Trend magazine enables the dissemination of Chinese propaganda and disinformation without any journalistic challenge, downplays serious concerns of the European Union over China’s trade practices, and grossly distorts China’s role in the war in Ukraine and its growing assertiveness towards Taiwan. On 1… Continue reading In the service of China’s interests
