Beijing sees Serbia as a partner in its attempts to move the world beyond an international order led by the West.

The low prices of BYD and other Chinese EV makers are terrifying policymakers in Western countries that have domestic car brands to protect. They are right to worry.

Brussels has signaled that securing critical raw materials for the green transition is a top priority. But it faces major challenges in its competition with China, of which the biggest is how to convince companies to prioritize geopolitics over the market.

Brussels has rebranded and repositioned its connectivity and infrastructure initiatives. But Global Gateway will need to maintain the right balance between pursuing strategic interests and offering improved conditions to partner countries.