This lecture will be given by Tomasz Kamiński (Associate Professor of Asian Studies, University of Łódź) as part of the IGI Series on Global Responsibilities: "China and the World."
Abstract: City diplomacy between EU and Chinese cities has become an increasingly significant layer of bilateral relations. The collaboration between cities is extensive and covers a wide range of thematic areas, with around half of the European cities having partnerships with Chinese counterparts, according to a survey of 745 cities. In my speech, I will analyse the role of cities in the multilevel framework of EU policy towards China. Based on survey results, I will try to unpack the city level of EU relations with China, showing its scope, patterns of cooperation, and potential political impact. I will present theoretical and empirical arguments to support the notion that city diplomacy should have a much more significant impact on EU policy towards China.
About the speaker: Tomasz Kamiński is a political scientist and associate professor at the Faculty of International and Political Studies, University of Łódź. His research activities are concentrated on paradiplomacy and city diplomacy, particularly in the context of EU foreign policy. He has worked on numerous research projects funded by the European Commission (Horizon 2020, Jean Monnet Module) and the Polish National Science Centre. He co-authored a book, "The Role of Regions in EU-China Relations". Please visit his website to find his publications and details about his work: https://tomaszkaminski.eu.