With increased economic strength, China is taking on a more visible role in global affairs. China’s infrastructure ambitions are manifested globally in its Belt and Road Initiative and in Europe through bilateral deals as well as the 16+1 cooperation format with East and Central European countries. With investments in ports, railways and roads, the Chinese state forges partnerships and dependencies with governments in Europe and around the world.
To what extent do these measures promote legitimate needs to enhance global connectivity? How do they strengthen China’s political influence? How should Europe respond to China’s investment drive?
In light of these questions, Dr. Matt Ferchen, nonresident scholar at the Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy, discussed the motives, implications and global context of China’s investments at the Stockholm Free World Forum on May 16th. The roundtable was moderated by Oscar Jonsson, director of SFWF.