July 17, 2026, 9:02 am
The Western Balkans are once again emerging as a strategic crossroads in Europe. Countries such as Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro and Albania pursue European Union integration, yet their political cultures, regional rivalries and historical legacies continue to shape engagement with global powers. The region is influenced by the ongoing effects of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the emerging conflict involving Israel, the United States and Iran. At the same time, China has cultivated some of its closest European partners in Serbia, Croatia and Albania through major infrastructure, technology and connectivity projects – including the Belgrade-Budapest Railway – strengthening its strategic foothold in Southeast Europe.
In this address, Dr Nina Markovic Khaze will examine how Western Balkan states navigate these competing pressures while pursuing European integration. She will assess China’s growing influence in the region, its implications for NATO and the European security architecture, and how the Balkans are evolving into a critical geopolitical pivot linking Europe, Eurasia and the Mediterranean. This discussion offers timely insights for policymakers, diplomats and security practitioners seeking to understand Europe’s emerging strategic frontiers.
Content Creator – Australian Institute of International Affairs
