The Institute for National and International Security (INIS) had the honour of hosting Prof. Dr. Jian Junbo, Associate Professor at the Center for China–EU Relations, Fudan University, and Senior Research Fellow of INIS, during his official visit to the INIS Headquarters in Belgrade.

Prof. Dr. Jian Junbo met with Prof. Dr. Darko Trifunović, Director of INIS, Col. (res.) Boško Zorić, and Col. (res.) Saša Stefanović. The meeting provided a platform for a high-level academic and policy dialogue on current developments in China–EU relations and the broader geopolitical environment.

Key Topics of Discussion

The conversation focused on the evolving dynamics between China and the European Union, particularly the challenges and opportunities for constructive engagement amid increasing global polarization. Prof. Jian emphasized the importance of continued dialogue and mutual understanding between Beijing and Brussels, especially in areas such as trade, technology, and security cooperation.

An important part of the discussion addressed the potential rapprochement between China and the United States, given the complex and tense nature of their current relations. Participants underlined that greater strategic communication between the two powers would significantly contribute to global stability.

Neutrality and the War in Ukraine

During the meeting, special attention was devoted to China’s neutral stance regarding the war in Ukraine. Both sides agreed on the importance of upholding the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, and acknowledged the necessity of seeking diplomatic pathways to end the Russian aggression. INIS experts and Prof. Jian shared the view that responsible global actors should work collectively to de-escalate conflicts and prevent the normalization of aggression as a tool of foreign policy.

Conclusions and Future Cooperation

The visit reaffirmed the strong professional and academic relationship between INIS and Fudan University. Both institutions expressed a shared interest in promoting constructive dialogue between China and Europe, developing joint academic projects, and enhancing cooperation within the field of Security Science and international strategic studies.

The meeting in Belgrade reflected INIS’s continued commitment to serving as a platform for global academic exchange and policy dialogue aimed at fostering peace, understanding, and cooperative security.