What should the new Dutch government do to respond to China’s increased geopolitical significance? Two speakers will reflect on this question from a historical point of view: how did China reach its current international position and why does this matter in the bilateral relationship with the Netherlands? Together, the speakers will explore how historical experiences can inform contemporary Dutch and European approaches to China’s growing global role.

Frans-Paul van der Putten, geopolitical analyst and author of China Resurrected, will offer a long-term perspective on how China has, since the nineteenth century, evolved from a vulnerable empire into a modern world power.

Limin Teh (Leiden University) will respond by examining how China’s modernization was shaped not only by concerns over security and sovereignty, but also by efforts to address domestic poverty and to participate in shaping international institutions. She will also reflect on how the Netherlands and the EU might engage with China on shared challenges, such as inequalities.