China’s Next Move in the Western Balkans | Stefan Vladisavljev

<p>China’s role in the Western Balkans is changing. Once associated primarily with infrastructure projects, loans and the Belt and Road Initiative, Beijing is increasingly turning towards AI, digital technologies, telecommunications and deeper political partnerships with Serbia at the centre of its regional presence.</p><p>In this Deep Dive, Alexandra Karppi speaks with Stefan Vladisavljev, Programme Director at Foundation BFPE in Belgrade, about what China actually wants from the Western Balkans and what countries like Serbia gain from the relationship.</p><p>They discuss why Serbia has become China’s closest partner in the region, Chinese investment and access to raw materials, Beijing’s position on Kosovo, the growing presence of Chineseworkers and tourists, Serbian public opinion towards China, and concerns surrounding surveillance technology, transparency and political influence.</p><p>The conversation also asks a bigger question: are we looking at China in the region clearly — or are we still caught between fear-mongering and overly positive narratives?</p><p>BONUS FOR PATRONS: Stefan stays with us for an extendedconversation looking beyond the Western Balkans to China’s evolving role across Central and Eastern Europe. They discuss why Beijing prefers bilateral relationships, Europe’s difficulty developing a common approach towards China, and why AI, digital cooperation and technology could define the next phase of China’s engagement with the region. </p><p><strong>TIMESTAMPS</strong></p><p>00:00 Introduction01:11 What is China doing in the Western Balkans?</p><p>04:56 From Belt and Road to AI and digital technology</p><p>06:33 China’s political interests, Kosovo and Serbia</p><p>10:17 Why Serbia has become China’s key regional partner</p><p>17:11 Chinese tourism and workers in Serbia</p><p>22:17 China, Serbia and a changing Hungary</p><p>25:23 What do Serbians actually think about China?</p><p>28:53 Surveillance, transparency and the risks of Chinese technology</p><p>32:29 Bonus conversation for Patrons – China’s role in the wider region</p><p>Talk Eastern Europe is the podcast from New Eastern Europe magazine - your trusted source for in-depth analysis and expert perspectives on Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, and the post-Soviet space.</p><p> <strong>ABOUT THIS PODCAST</strong></p><p>Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and all major platforms.</p><p><strong>Read the New Eastern Europe Magazine </strong></p><p>Bimonthly publication wi