According to most analysts, China, with its vast size, economic dynamism, and the political skills of its leaders, is, in the long term, the most serious contender for global hegemony. There are certainly two key prerequisites for achieving this: first, the continuation of its economic growth, and second, the maintenance of political stability. Neither of these is certain. Despite many talking about the “rising superpower” and the “Chinese century,” one must be cautious. Predictions in social sciences are always precarious, and the future often holds surprises.

An excellent book that addresses important questions: Why must the People's Republic of China's relations with Greece be considered within the broader context of China's relations with Europe and the U.S.? How does Washington try to balance between China as an economic partner and China as a geopolitical competitor? Ultimately, can you prevent an economic giant from behaving like a superpower?

Alexandros Mallias
Ambassador of Greece to Washington (2005-2009)

At the UN, China gave me the impression of steel coated with cotton. Will China conquer the top? If so, how and when? The multifaceted in-depth analyses in the 13 chapters of this pioneering book for our country provide a serious answer to the question...

Sotiris Mousouris,
former Deputy Secretary-General of the UN
National Representative at the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF)

A book that enriches the meager Greek bibliography on modern China and offers a very useful tool for Greek readers to understand the complex international issues raised by its explosive rise in the international system. At the same time, a book that demonstrates the dynamism and outward orientation of the Greek international relations community...

Dimitris Keridis,
Associate Professor of International Relations, Panteion University
Director of the Navarino Network