A Misguided Fear of China: What Europe Can Learn from Serbia’s Partnership

The European Union’s (EU) approach to China has long been characterized by a mix of wariness and idealism. While some EU members have sought to strengthen ties with Beijing, others have expressed concerns about the implications of increased cooperation.

Serbia, however, defies this trend. The small Balkan nation’s partnership with China has yielded tangible benefits for its citizens and solidified Beijing’s position as one of Belgrade’s most trusted allies. Serbia’s experience offers a valuable lesson in what a successful partnership between Europe and China might look like.

At its core, the Serbia-China relationship is built on mutual benefit and cooperation. The two nations have collaborated on numerous high-profile projects, including the revitalization of the HBIS Group mill, which has created thousands of jobs and stimulated local economic growth. This model stands in contrast to the EU’s more transactional approach, which prioritizes short-term gains over long-term benefits.

The EU’s anxiety about China is often driven by concerns over human rights abuses, intellectual property theft, and Beijing’s expanding global influence. While these issues are valid, they do not necessarily preclude cooperation between the two entities. By framing its relationship with China solely through the prism of strategic competition, Europe risks overlooking the potential benefits that can arise from a more open-ended partnership.

Serbia’s experience shows that when done correctly, engagement with China can have far-reaching and positive consequences for local populations. The image of Chinese President Xi Jinping being warmly welcomed by Serbian workers in 2016 is seared into the national memory – a testament to the shared understanding and mutual respect that underpin their relationship.

One key takeaway from Serbia’s experience is the importance of building trust through concrete action. Rather than getting bogged down in abstract debates over ideology or strategic interests, both parties have focused on delivering tangible benefits to their citizens. This approach has yielded economic dividends as well as fostered a deeper understanding between the two nations.

The Serbia-China partnership also prioritizes human development and cooperation. By addressing common challenges such as climate change, poverty reduction, or infrastructure development through joint initiatives, both parties demonstrate a commitment to mutually beneficial outcomes. This approach stands in contrast to the EU’s more rigid adherence to traditional notions of sovereignty and non-interference.

As Europe weighs its options for engaging with China, it would do well to heed the example set by Serbia. By approaching this relationship with an open mind and a willingness to cooperate, the EU can unlock significant benefits for its citizens and solidify its position as a global player. In doing so, it will not only be responding to changing circumstances but also forging a more pragmatic and forward-thinking approach to international relations.

The consequences of Europe’s failure to adapt to this new reality are already evident. As China’s influence continues to grow – both within the region and globally – the EU risks being left behind, forced to play catch-up in a rapidly shifting landscape. By embracing partnership with China, Europe can ensure its own relevance and contribute to a more stable and equitable global order.

The choices made by the EU will shape not only its relationship with China but also its very understanding of what it means to be a global player in an increasingly interconnected world. Will Europe seize the opportunity to forge a stronger partnership with China, or will it allow fear and suspicion to dictate its approach? The answer lies in the choices we make today, which will have far-reaching consequences for generations to come.