In the context of Asian geopolitics, international attention often focuses on Sino-American relations. However, regional balances also depend on the dynamics between the continent’s two major powers: China and India. These two countries are the main emerging powers in Asia and will play a decisive role in the future of this part of the world.
Today, China and India share certain interests related to their economic development and participate in forums such as BRICS+ and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). However, this cooperation remains fragile and is marked by a complex geostrategic environment. China seeks to maintain good relations with its neighbours while managing its tensions with the United States. For its part, India is pursuing its internal development while applying a policy of ‘multi-alignment’, against a backdrop of tense relations with Pakistan, a strategic ally of China.
Added to this context are long-standing territorial conflicts between China and India along the Himalayan border. Both countries are also competing to extend their influence in the Indian Ocean. In the long term, these tensions could develop into a strategic rivalry. The future of their – since 1962 relatively peaceful – coexistence is therefore uncertain. Given their demographic and economic weight, as well as their military strength, the evolution of relations between these two Asian powers will also have an impact on Europe and the rest of the world.
To analyse these issues and their implications for Europe, we will welcome three experts: Major General (ret.) BK Sharma, Director General of the United Service Institution of India (USI), will explain the Indian perspective, Dr Chin-Hao Huang, Associate Professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (Singapore), will illustrate the Chinese point of view and Mr Jan Luyks, former Belgian Ambassador to India and an indologist currently associated with the Egmont Institute, will examine the consequences of the evolution of Sino-Indian relations for Europe.
This conference will be held in English at the conference room at campus Renaissance (entrance: rue Hobbema 8/Hobbemastraat 8, 1000 Brussels) on Wednesday 11 December 2025 at 17:00. Simultaneous interpretation in Dutch and French will be available on site. Please note that online participation will not be possible.
Registration is required by Sunday 7 December 2025 at the latest.
