Η ΟΙΚΟΝΟΜΙΚΗ ΔΙΠΛΩΜΑΤΙΑ ΤΗΣ ΚΙΝΑΣ ΣΤΟΝ ΕΥΡΥΤΕΡΟ ΓΕΩΠΟΛΙΤΙΚΟ ΧΩΡΟ ΤΗΣ ΕΛΛΑΔΑΣ (ΒΑΛΚΑΝΙΑ, ΑΝΑΤΟΛΙΚΗ ΜΕΣΟΓΕΙΟΣ)

Abstract

The 21st century is marked by a variety of challenges at the international political and economic level. Challenges related to climate change, artificial intelligence, green energy, the 4th industrial revolution and the stabilization of the international economic system. Through the entry of China in 2001 in the WTO. a new economic powerhouse was created, which in turn intensified the globalization and interdependence of economies worldwide. Economic diplomacy is the tool used by the great powers to increase their influence and soft power around the globe. China's economic diplomacy in this area, as expressed through the Belt and Road Initiative, occupies the present work. Especially in the wider geopolitical area of Greece, the Chinese economic footprint is strong, in some cases with greater or lesser intensity and success. Chinese business penetration covers both high-tech sectors such as 5G networks and smart agriculture, as well as supply chain, ports and infrastructure sectors, mainly in the Balkans. After analyzing all the factors of China's economic penetration, conclusions are drawn about the lessons that Greece can take on the ways of reacting and hosting the Chinese economic factor.