H.E. Mr. Vanja Filipovic:

As regards Chinese influence, China has been pursuing economic diplomacy in the entire region. Bosnia and Herzegovina is not an exception. Chinese companies are very interested and are in fact involved in building several large infrastructural projects. The money or loans were probably the easiest to get and deals were done to fast-track these construction projects, which included a thermal power plant. Another project was in the works but it appears to have failed. The one notable change in Chinese diplomatic behaviour was in November last year at the discussion about extending the EUFOR peacekeeping mission, when China abstained, for the first time I believe, along with Russia. Before then, it was supportive of Russia every year, so that could be a sign of things to come or a change in positions. We will see. Our western Balkan countries are not alone in getting this type of economic approach from China. Chinese companies have built large infrastructural projects in EU countries as well. They have just completed construction of a major bridge in Croatia. They are looking for competitive openings and are usually found in places and on projects where European companies and funds are harder to get, more expensive or less competitive in different spheres. This is something that should be on our minds if we want to contend with it.