Investment Trends - China's investment strategy in Europe is evolving from large deals to targeted investments in greenfield sites, particularly in electric vehicles and batteries [1][2] - Chinese investment in Europe experienced a decline for seven consecutive years before rebounding recently [3][4] - Central European countries like Hungary, Slovakia, and Serbia are increasingly open to Chinese capital and influence [4] Geopolitical Factors - US's "America First" policies are prompting Europe to reassess its dependencies on the US and consider its relationship with China [1] - European governments are concerned about China's relationship with Russia and China's control over rare earth materials [3] - Europe tightened investment screening nearly a decade ago due to concerns about Chinese investments in critical infrastructure [3] Future Outlook - The future global landscape will be influenced by whether Europe reduces its dependence on China or if US aggression pushes Europe and China closer [4]