The European Union’s institutional discourses on Chinese infrastructural investments

Abstract

The European Union's relationship with China has been recently characterized by a complex interplay of convergence and divergence, evident in its discourse on Chinese infrastructure investments, particularly under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, this discourse is far from monolithic, reflecting the diverse perspectives and interests of the EU's key institutions and agencies: the EU Commission, European Parliament, European Council, Council of Ministers, and External Action Service. This paper, employing discourse analysis, delves into the internal tensions between convergent and divergent approaches towards Chinese infrastructure investments within these institutions over the past two European Parliament terms (2014-2023). By examining policy statements, legislative debates, and official communications, it illuminates the competing visions that shape the EU's engagement with China's infrastructure projects, thus providing insights into the factors driving EU policy formation in this complex area.