China-Track at the Munich Security Conference 2026

In 2026, MERICS is once again co-hosting the China-Track at the Munich Security Conference, which curates critical discussions on China’s rising global power and the strategic challenges for Europe and likeminded partners.

2nd Annual China Track Welcome Reception
Thursday, February 12

The reception in the evening of February 12 offers an opportunity to connect with hosts, speakers and guests of the events that are part of the MSC China track, curated by the MSC and MERICS and co-hosted by MSC, MERICS and CFR. 

Panel Discussion on Coordinating Likeminded China Policy
Friday, February 13 

The EU and like-minded countries share concerns about a growing geopolitical and geoeconomic squeeze between the two big powers, the US and China. Beijing’s increasing use of trade, investment and critical supply chains as instruments of statecraft as well as its continued support and geopolitical alignment with Russia have elevated China to a central strategic challenge and security concern. With the US no longer automatically the anchor of likeminded coordination, Europe and likeminded partners such as Japan, Australia, Canada, the UK, and India need to deepen practical coordination to build geopolitical weight and safeguard rules-based norms. This conversation will explore joint political momentum and realistic pathways to synchronize action.

MSC-MERICS China Dinner
Saturday, February 14

This confidential dinner serves as the MSC's most decisive and trusted forum on China. It gathers a curated group high-level decision-makers from government and industry to discuss the strategic challenges posed by China’s rising power. This year we are focusing on leadership driven by middle powers.