The Rising Influence of China

How a global power shapes your everyday life

From the smartphone in your hand to the clothes you wear — China’s influence on your everyday life is growing. What started as an ambitious infrastructure project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has evolved into a global network of ports, railways, energy projects, and digital infrastructure. 

Think of investments in European ports, rail connections linking Asia and Europe, and the rollout of 5G networks and fiber-optic cables through the Digital Silk Road. These are not isolated projects, but strategic links shaping how goods, energy, and data move across the world. 

But this isn’t just about distant ports or international politics. This is about your future! 

Whoever controls supply chains and key technologies influences jobs, innovation, and economic opportunities. At the same time, China plays a double role in the climate transition: it is both the world’s largest CO₂ emitter and a global leader in green technologies such as solar panels and batteries. 

During this event, we’ll unpack how these developments come together — and what they mean for you as a student in the Netherlands. 

What to expect 

• A clear and accessible introduction to China’s Belt and Road Initiative 
• Insight into how China invests in ports, railways, energy, and digital infrastructure 
• The geopolitical impact of these developments on Europe and the Netherlands 
• A direct translation to business, supply chains, and your future career opportunities 
• Space for your questions during the Q&A 

Speakers

Jacqueline Verweij is a lecturer at The Hague University of Applied Sciences, specializing in international relations. Her work focuses on global power dynamics and the role of emerging economies such as China. During this event, she will provide a clear introduction to the Belt and Road Initiative and place it within its broader geopolitical context.  

Dr. Sanjay Sharma teaches Business in Asia at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. A specialist on Korean Peninsula and former director of Maastricht University India Institute, he translates the impact of geoeconomics, business diplomacy and rule of law on the growth and sustainability of markets, industries and collective prosperity. In this session, he connects the bigger picture to real-world practice — and to your future career. 

Registration

Free entry for students, staff, and anyone interested, as always. Please register in advance:

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