A formal debate of scholars and experts at the Andrássy Salon
In the past two decades, Chinese entities have invested heavily in Europe, financing and buying stakes in European ports, airports, energy production, farms, and chemical enterprises, including in strategic industries or infrastructures. Europe—and within it Hungary—is ramping up its production of electric vehicle components primarily with Chinese involvement. However, such investments mostly have the Chinese Communist Party at the helm. Should concerns regarding national security or political, social, and environmental risks warrant heavier scrutiny in Europe, or do the economic benefits prevail over the risks?
On November 30, 2023, Common Sense Society–Hungary in collaboration with the Milestone Institute organized a formal debate about the motion:
“Risks of major Chinese investments in Europe outweigh the benefits.”
Debated for the motion:
- Dr. Ágnes Szunomár, associate professor at Corvinus University of Budapest, researcher at the Institute of World Economics within the Centre for Economic and Regional Studies, Hungary
- Dr. Eric Hendriks, sociologist, researcher on Chinese political thought, fellow at the Danube Institute
Debated against the motion:
- Dr. Levente Horváth, former diplomat, founding director of the Eurasia Center of the John von Neumann University, Hungary
- Mr. David Morris, diplomat and advisor, senior fellow at the Center for China and Globalization
The debate was moderated by Mr. Róbert Panyi, consultant at the Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency.
A Common Sense Society Magyarország (CSS–HU) is a nonprofit organization that promotes liberty, prosperity, and beauty through education and public discourse. The educational fellowships, curriculum resources, publications, cultural programs, community initiatives, and national campaigns of CSS–HU illuminate the enduring ideas that have transformed the course of human history for the better. CSS–HU does not receive funding from governments or political parties.