Europe has long been a central arena in global politics, historically dominated by Western powers and, more recently, shaped by its transatlantic alliance with the United States.

Yet in the 21st century, China has emerged as a new contender, seeking to deepen economic influence while navigating Europe’s complex political and security environment.

Through investments in infrastructure, trade, technology, and diplomacy, Beijing has carved out significant inroads into the European continent.

The question remains: will Europe embrace China as a partner in modernization, or view it as a strategic threat undermining its sovereignty and unity?

The Belt and Road in Europe: Ports, Railways, and Industrial Assets

China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has extended deep into Europe. Investments in ports such as Piraeus in Greece, rail links between China and Central Europe, and stakes in industrial firms in Germany, Italy, and Eastern Europe highlight Beijing’s economic ambitions.

For Beijing, Europe is not just a market—it is also a gateway to global legitimacy. Controlling logistics hubs like ports and rail networks allows Chinese firms to secure supply chains and expand influence over global trade routes. For some European states, particularly in Southern and Eastern Europe, these projects offer much-needed investment amid sluggish growth and limited EU funding.

However, critics argue that such infrastructure creates dependency and provides China with leverage over European decision-making. The acquisition of Piraeus, now one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean under Chinese management, is often cited as a case where economic influence translates into political sway.

Divisions Within the European Union

China’s influence is amplified by internal divisions within the EU. While Brussels seeks a common policy toward Beijing, member states often pursue their own interests.

• Greece and Hungary have welcomed Chinese investments, sometimes blocking EU resolutions critical of China’s human rights record.

• Italy became the first G7 nation to sign onto the BRI in 2019, though it later reconsidered the agreement under pressure from the EU and U.S.

• Germany maintains deep trade ties, particularly in the automotive sector, even as it warns of the risks of dependency.

These divisions weaken Europe’s ability to present a united front, enabling China to play a divide-and-conquer strategy—engaging bilaterally with states that are more open to its influence.

Technology and Security Risks: Huawei and Beyond

A flashpoint in Europe-China relations is the issue of technology and security. Chinese companies like Huawei have been central in rolling out 5G networks across Europe. Proponents argue that Huawei provides affordable and advanced technology, essential for Europe’s digital competitiveness. But security agencies in the U.S. and parts of Europe warn that Huawei’s ties to the Chinese state could allow Beijing to conduct espionage or disrupt critical infrastructure.

Beyond telecoms, Chinese platforms like TikTok and investments in artificial intelligence and biotech raise similar debates. Should Europe embrace Chinese technology as part of globalization, or restrict it to safeguard sovereignty? The EU has begun pushing for stricter screening of foreign investments and digital regulations, but consensus remains elusive.

Political Leverage and Policy Influence

China’s economic weight often translates into political leverage. European states dependent on Chinese trade or investment sometimes soften their stance on sensitive issues, from Tibet to Taiwan to human rights abuses in Xinjiang.

For instance, when Lithuania deepened ties with Taiwan in 2021, Beijing responded with economic coercion, cutting off trade. While the EU supported Lithuania, the crisis exposed how vulnerable smaller member states can be when confronting China alone. This has raised fears that Beijing may use its economic ties as a political tool to fragment European unity and sway policy positions.

Energy, Manufacturing, and Vulnerabilities

Europe’s energy crisis, exacerbated by the war in Ukraine, has sparked debate about the risks of overdependence on external powers. Many now wonder: could China exploit similar vulnerabilities in manufacturing or supply chains?

China dominates global production of solar panels, batteries, and rare earth minerals—industries crucial for Europe’s green transition. While cooperation could accelerate Europe’s climate goals, dependency on Chinese supply chains also raises geopolitical risks. Just as reliance on Russian gas proved dangerous, dependence on Chinese technology and raw materials could leave Europe exposed in future crises.

Balancing Relations with the U.S. and China

Europe faces a geopolitical balancing act. On one hand, the U.S. is Europe’s closest security partner through NATO and increasingly presses its allies to align against China. On the other, European economies cannot easily ignore the Chinese market, which is essential for exporters from Germany, France, and beyond.

Some leaders, like French President Emmanuel Macron, advocate for European “strategic autonomy”—engaging with China independently rather than simply following Washington’s lead. Others argue that Europe must stand firmly with the U.S. to confront an assertive Beijing. This tension reflects Europe’s struggle to define its place in a multipolar world.

European Countermeasures: Screening, Diversification, and Unity

In recent years, the EU has begun crafting strategies to counterbalance China’s influence. Measures include:

• Investment screening mechanisms to block foreign acquisitions in strategic sectors.

• Global Gateway initiative, a €300 billion program designed to rival China’s BRI by funding infrastructure in developing countries.

• Diversification of supply chains, particularly in green technologies and semiconductors, to reduce dependency.

Yet, success depends on unity. If individual member states continue to prioritize short-term national gains, the EU may struggle to act as a coherent geopolitical actor.

Conclusion: Europe at a Crossroads

China’s geopolitical moves in Europe reflect a careful mix of economic engagement and strategic positioning. From ports to digital networks, Beijing has established a significant presence that cannot be ignored. For Europe, the challenge lies in balancing opportunities for trade and cooperation with the risks of dependency and political manipulation.

The stakes are high. If Europe fails to coordinate its policies, China may deepen its foothold by exploiting internal divisions. But if the EU acts with unity and foresight, it can engage with Beijing on more equal terms—partnering where interests align, and resisting where sovereignty is at stake.

In the end, China’s role in Europe is not predetermined. It will be shaped by Europe’s choices: whether to approach Beijing from a position of fragmentation and vulnerability, or with collective strength and strategic clarity.