China’s Updated Playbook in the Western Balkans

What this episode covers

What are the implications of China's presence in the Western Balkans when it comes to EU enlargement ? The conversation delves into China's strategic investments, the varying degrees of engagement with different countries in the region, and the backlash against certain projects. Vladimir Shopov (ECFR) discusses with host Emma Belmonte the evolving nature of China's approach, the EU's response to Chinese influence, and the implications for EU accession processes. Read Vladimir Shopov's policy brief here: Eyes wide shut: How to read China’s playbook in the Western BalkansTo read more on this, here are some of CHOICE's articles on the topic: The Environmental Impact of Chinese Projects in the Western Balkans “Win Some, Lose Some”: China’s Involvement in the Extractive and Raw Materials Industries in the Western Balkans China’s Aid in the Western Balkans: Supporting Development, Undermining Good Governance#China #WesternBalkans #EU #EUaccession #BRI #BeltandRoadInitiative #Chineseinvestments #infrastructure, #politics #europeanpolitics #europe #china-europe #China-EU #civilsociety #accession #enlargement #geopolitics

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How long is this episode of China Observers?

This episode is 29 minutes long.

When was this China Observers episode published?

This episode was published on January 23, 2026.

What is this episode about?

What are the implications of China's presence in the Western Balkans when it comes to EU enlargement ? The conversation delves into China's strategic investments, the varying degrees of engagement with different countries in the region, and the...

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