Geopolitical and Geostrategic Characteristics of China

Geopolitical and Geostrategic Characteristics of China - еight lecture

As part of the eighth lecture of the Belgrade School of Geopolitics, Assist. Prof. Ivan Zarić delivered a lecture dedicated to the geopolitical and geostrategic characteristics of the People's Republic of China. The lecture examined the development of China's grand strategy from the founding of the PRC to the present day, as well as changes in Beijing's foreign policy and security priorities. Particular attention was devoted to China's position in the Indo-Pacific, its relations with major powers, and the contemporary challenges shaping Chinese strategic behaviour. Participants explored the evolution of China's maritime strategy, the concept of island chains, the A2/AD strategy, and China's efforts to expand its strategic depth and secure access to key maritime routes. A significant part of the lecture focused on territorial disputes that occupy an important place in China's security policy. The status of Taiwan, disputes in the South China Sea, their geopolitical and legal dimensions, and the importance of these areas for regional and global security were thoroughly examined. The concluding part of the lecture presented the basic elements of the Belt and Road Initiative and its role in strengthening China's international position. The lecture concluded with a discussion on China's place in contemporary international relations and its future geostrategic challenges.