Romania
| 2024 | 2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 69 / 98 | - |
| Original Score * As some Indicators can be skipped where data is unavailable, the maximum overall and Domain scores are not identical for each country. Country rankings are generated from ratios of the maximum scores and the achieved scores. | 109 / 396 | - |
Jul 2024
The Indicators have been classified by the stage of the influence process at which they occur. Some Indicators correspond to exposure to PRC influence, e.g. the presence of Confucius Institutes. Others test for pressure – such as visa denials to academics or journalists. Finally, some Indicators capture the effect of PRC influence, such as national policy changes in favor of PRC interests.
The individual Layer scores for each country are tallied and displayed via rankings.
Exposure * Exposure assesses the conditions that make the target country vulnerable to PRC‘s influence, e.g. in terms of economic dependence, or the receiving of some form of benefit. | 2024 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 66 / 98 | - |
| Level of Score | 30 % | - |
Pressure * Pressure measures the actions that the PRC directly or indirectly exerts over the target country in order to change the behavior of people in the target country, e.g. in terms of threatening economic punishment to provoke/prevent a political decision. | 2024 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 68 / 98 | - |
| Level of Score | 0 % | - |
Alignment * Alignment evaluates the degree of accommodations the target country makes to the PRC, and the actual policy changes and impacts on the target country. | 2024 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 53 / 98 | - |
| Level of Score | 32 % | - |
In 2023, Romania had a GDP per capita of US$18,419 and a total population of 19.17 million people.
Romania established full diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 2049. Romania was ranked 49th in Reporters Without Borders‘ 2024 World Press Freedom Index, and rated Free in Freedom House‘s 2024 Global Freedom Index, with a score of 83/100.
Key Takeaways
- Romania remains a country of relatively low interest (or “low pressure” as defined by the China Index 2022) for Beijing, where the PRC does not invest much resources or diplomatic effort. In a similar vein, the Romanian authorities continue their stance of recent years to stay away from the global or regional initiatives launched by the PRC, but without antagonizing Beijing with friendly gestures towards Taiwan.
- In the past, the image of the PRC in Romanian society was neutral-positive, based largely on ignorance about realities and recent developments. The situation has changed lately as the economic problems in China generated negative media coverage. Elite linkages are likely to be found in local and regional governments, academia or certain niches of the business sector, but these groups with direct connections in the PRC remain rather small and isolated.
- In the last four-five years, Romania adopted legislation to exclude PRC companies from public tenders and infrastructure (for instance Huawei from the 5G system). However in 2023 the decision was slightly amended by allowing Lenovo to provide parts of the equipment for 5G. Another large construction firm will start building a section of Bucharest’s ring road, but their tender had been submitted before the ban was introduced; similar new contracts are unlikely.
Percentage scores do not suggest some degree out of a “completely influenced” level of 100%. The percentages express the country‘s score out of the total achievable amount based on the Indicators for each Domain.
Media
The Media Domain evaluates how PRC entities influence public debate and media coverage about the PRC in the Index country.
In my country, there are media organizations that belong to the World Chinese Media (世界华文媒体) network.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
0/ No
62 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
20 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
7 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
At the World Chinese Media meeting in August 2019 (Shanghai), a Mr. Gao Jin representing "European Overseas Chinese Newspaper" was present from Romania. 华扬传媒集团 includes several smaller media outlets locally: \n1. 旅罗华人报\n2. 中欧通讯网\n3. 罗马尼亚华人头条\n4. 人民日报海外版罗马尼亚周刊\n5. 今晚报罗马尼亚专版\n6. 香港文汇报罗马尼亚专版. They serve largely the diaspora of up to 10.000 Chinese nationals present in Romania and the Republic of Moldova. The PRC embassy in Bucharest also launched in 2022 a newsletter, "Chinactiv". All these publications are rather invisible to the Romanian public and irrelevant on the domestic media market
- https://www.romanian-companies.eu/hua-yang-media-group-srl-11755293
- https://newsbucuresti.ro/ambasada-chinei-la-bucuresti-a-lansat-primul-numar-al-newsletter-ului-chinactiv-sub-forma-electronica
- http://www.china-eunews.eu/6/2012/1121/78.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are journalists or media organizations which are members of the Belt and Road Media Cooperation Alliance/Union, the Belt and Road News Alliance, or other Belt and Road media networks that connected to PRC (e.g. Belt and Road Media Community, Belt and Road Journalists Network, Belt and Road News Network, or B&R TV Networks).
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
47 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
23 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
19 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Curierul National daily is a member of the Belt and Road Economic Information Partnership, but this is an old-style journal without practically any circulation or traffic on its website
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, journalists, media organizations, or online influencers have participated in international travel organized by PRC state-owned media or PRC-connected entities.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
4 countries chose this answer
0/ No
22 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
30 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
21 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
12 countries chose this answer
94 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There were several instances when Romanian journalists went to China on tours paid by a Chinese company. For instance, in 2018, a Forbes Romania team of journalists went on a field trip to Shenzhen, China, to visit Huawei's headquarters
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are journalists, media organizations or online influencers who have received trainings from PRC state-owned media or PRC-connected entities.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
0/ No
50 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
16 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
17 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
9 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No data or rumours exist about Romanian journalists trained in the PRC, but there are three Romanian journalists who work for the Romanian language section of Radio China International (China Media Group). One of them is Dan Tomozei, who owns a personal blog, who was probably trained in China long time ago. Their reach is negligible. Tomozei only makes the headlines when it is invited in programs by other anti-liberal propagandists, much better known
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, PRC state media (including print, radio, and video) is broadcasted or distributed in a local language.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
0/ No
26 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
23 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
24 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
16 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are two media outlets which broadcast in Romanian: Radio China International (CRI - both radio and online, via its own website and Facebook) and Xinhua (via Facebook). The CGTN television is present on cable, but only in English. The Xinhua local correspondents are a family couple who "were left here in conservation since the '80s", according to the article in link
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are local media outlets wholly or majority owned by PRC-connected individuals or entities, or media owners who have significant business interests in the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
61 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
16 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
12 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
7 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In Romania, there are NO publications with a PRC shareholding among the 200 most important media outlets in Romania that are members of the professional association in the field (BRAT - Romanian Transmedia Audience Bureau). The Chinactiv e-newsletter published (in Romanian) by the embassy has no impact on the media market
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, media outlets have delivered content provided by PRC state-funded media, or under content-sharing agreements with PRC state-funded media.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
0/ No
25 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
25 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
23 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
17 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
We detected only one partnership between a news website (CurierulNational.ro) and PRC-controlled entities (CCTV and Radio China International), which publishes 5-6 news stories a day on China-related topics. The readership is negligible and has no impact on the public conversation. The news about the PRC enter the Romanian media channels organically, from the Western media. Probably the most visible source about PRC in Romanian language is the Facebook page of the embassy
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, local newspapers, online news websites, content farms, or social media platforms receive economic support by regularly featuring advertisements from PRC-connected entities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
58 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
9 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
12 countries chose this answer
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
We could not identify any PRC state-media or government advertisements inserted within local newspapers, online news websites or social media. There was a publicity campaign by Huawei when they were lobbying to be accepted for 5G contracts, but that was clearly market as advertising and the investments in it were minimal. Most PRC companies which invest or sell in Romania operate in competitive sectors and prefer to keep a low profile
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are journalists who have had pressure exerted on them by the PRC, including (but not limited to) public denunciation, revocation of journalist ID, denial of visa, lawsuits, or threat thereof.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
30 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are no known cases of Romanian journalists being under pressure by China
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are media organizations that describe relations with the PRC as based on friendship, brotherhood, or otherwise use emotive language that refers to the relationship in familial terms.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
41 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
14 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
16 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
20 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
We did not discover any evidence that journalists or media outlets are censoring views critical of the PRC government. The exception is the low visibility Curierul National mentioned at point 2 above, but even they present rather factual information and avoid the typical socialist propaganda style reminescent of the former Communist regime, because it backfires
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are media personalities (including reporters, journalists or commentators) or celebrities who echo PRC talking points, such as denying the existence of or whitewashing human rights abuses (e.g. a media personality who rejects that there are re-education camps for Uyghurs in Xinjiang).
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
60 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
17 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
12 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
5 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is a Romanian journalist working for Radio China International (Romanian section), Dan Tomozei, who speaks favorably about human rights in China, but he is absolutely marginal. In general these issues do not interest the public much so they are not subject of genuine debates, or trolling. When a teenager appeared in a popular TV music show dressed in Mao's red guards uniform (link), without any reaction from the producers or the audience, this was rather a sign of the total ignorance about PRC history of the Romanian public
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
Academia
The Academia Domain measures how the PRC state attempts to restrict academic freedom by influencing or interfering with the Index country‘s academic and educational activities.
In my country, universities have established research partnerships with PRC-connected entities. (e.g. Huawei, Tencent or Alibaba)
2024
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
7 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
20 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
24 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
39 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Except for a few partnerships with technical universities, Huawei also provides scholarships and trips to China for Romanian students from many other universities, including non-technical ones, as part of its Seeds for the Future program. However their interest and media presence decreased in the last years, after it became clear that the Romanian authorities stick to the Memorandum on 5G signed with the US in 2019
- https://adevarul.ro/tech/internet/huawei-incheie-parteneriat-upb-ofera-studentilor-burse-stagii-pregatire-it-1_60e6daa95163ec4271decb47/index.html
- https://www.tuiasi.ro/noutati/huawei-a-inaugurat-primul-centru-de-instruire-din-tara-la-universitatea-tehnica-gheorghe-asachi-din-iasi/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are Confucius Institutes/Classrooms or other PRC-affiliated Chinese language centers based at universities.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
7 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
14 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
39 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
31 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are 4 Confucius Institutes in Romania, hosted by the public universities of Bucharest, Cluj, Sibiu and Braşov. There are also Confucius Classrooms throughout Romanian cities. However the level of proficiency of students is in general low
- https://confucius.unibuc.ro
- https://www.unitbv.ro/institutul-confucius.html
- https://confucius.ulbsibiu.ro/ro
- http://confucius.institute.ubbcluj.ro
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country plans to include, or does include, Chinese as a foreign language in K-12 or primary education, and receives free or subsidized (e.g. offered below market price) educational books and teachers from the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
57 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
40 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
A number of Romanian schools or high schools provide Chinese as a foreign language. There were plans about a decade ago to introduce Chinese in the national curricula, but they haven't been implemented. It is unlikely that such courses become very popular or involve a significant number of students, as the attraction of the PRC declined lately
- https://www.digi24.ro/stiri/actualitate/educatie/limba-chineza-introdusa-in-scoli-profesorii-romani-pleaca-la-specializare-la-beijing-310099
- https://observatornews.ro/educatie/interes-mare-pentru-limba-chineza-in-romania-ce-avantaje-au-tinerii-care-stiu-mandarina-459777.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, one or more think tanks and academic research centers belong to PRC-affiliated networks/associations (such as: the Silk Road Think Tank Association, Silk Road Think Tank Network [SiLKS], Belt and Road Studies Network, University Alliance of the Silk Road, University Consortium of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road).
2024
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
46 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
22 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
19 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Institute for World Economy of the Romanian Academy is a member of the Belt and Road Studies Network. Other organizations that are also part of similar networks: 1. 雅西戈奥尔基阿萨季技术大学有加入「丝绸之路大学联盟」 2. 中罗丝路工匠学院是「罗马尼亚首家罗中高职教育国际合作办学机构，也是中国高职院校在海外成立的第一家“丝路工匠学院” 3. 「华东理工大学锡比乌中欧国际商学院」是因為「响应教育部“一带一路”教育行动」而創立
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, think tanks and academic research centers have received financial benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities, such as through grants, donations, sponsored exchange programs, or fellowship programs at PRC institutions.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
7 countries chose this answer
0/ No
29 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
13 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
23 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
17 countries chose this answer
91 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) has funded a joint project between the Institute of environment and sustainable development in Agriculture - The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CASS) and the University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest
- https://www.usamv.ro/index.php/ro/744-proiectul-comun-china-romania-intre-institutul-mediului-si-dezvoltare-durabila-in-agricultura-academia-chineza-a-stiintelor-agricole-caas-si-universitatea-de-stiinte-agronomice-si-medicina-veterinara-din-bucuresti-usamv
- https://cercetare.ubbcluj.ro/ro/newsletter-17-20-ianuarie-2022/
- https://uefiscdi.gov.ro/articole/3715/Cooperare-bilaterala-Romania-China--Competitia-2014.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, experts participate in PRC talent recruitment programs such as the Thousand Talents Program or Changjiang Scholars program.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
53 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
18 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
12 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
10 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
We could not identify any information throughout the media on Romanian experts participating in talent recruitment programs by the PRC
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, scholars have taken trips to the PRC or to other countries organized or run by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
6 countries chose this answer
0/ No
31 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
19 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
16 countries chose this answer
92 countries answered this indicator; 6 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are partnerships between Romanian and Chinese universities that include exchanges of students and professors. The four Confucius Institutes in Romania also provide scholarships to students for short-term or longer stays in the PRC. There are also visits of different think tank representatives to China
- https://www.mfa.gov.cn/ce/cgconstanta//eng/zggk/t840461.htm
- https://beijing.mae.ro/gallery/1336
- http://confucius.institute.ubbcluj.ro/bursa-in-china
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, organized PRC-connected student groups, such as Chinese Students and Scholars Associations (CSSAs), are involved in attempts to censor staff or students (e.g. by harassing students protesting human rights abuses in the PRC, or formally complaining about the identification of Taiwan as a country in lecture slides).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
85 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
4 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
3 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There have been no such cases made public. The number of students present in Romania is low, in the dozens
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, scholars or academics have been pressured after expressing opinions or producing scholarship that is critical of the PRC, including via visa denials for PRC travel, workplace censure, lawsuits, legal challenges, or threats thereof.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
86 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
5 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are no such publicly known cases, but nor are there scholars reputed for being critical of the PRC. However, in 2024 the Bucharest University (public university) responded to pressure from the PRC embassy and cancelled an event featuring a Taiwanese official
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, PRC-connected entities have been involved in school or university curriculum design, such as courses about East Asian history, modern politics, etc.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
68 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
28 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In Romania, there are no university courses on PRC politics or contemporary history of the region, so there were no such cases of involvement in curriculum design. A course in Taiwanese politics was recently introduced at the Bucharest University; the situation must be monitored if any sign of pressure appears
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, scholars have published articles that echo PRC talking points, such as denying the existence of or whitewashing human rights abuses (e.g. an academic who rejects that there are re-education camps for Uyghurs in Xinjiang).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
65 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
18 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
9 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are very few scholarly articles published (or indeed journals) on such topics in Romania, and so no platform on which such manipulation to occur. The local China experts and the Confucius Institutes' staff avoid discussions about contemporary politics
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
Economy
The Economy Domain measures the PRC‘s economic leverage in the Index country, and how this is used to influence economic policy or corporate behavior in ways that favor the PRC.
The PRC is my country's number one trading partner (for trade in goods only).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
62 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
36 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
PRC is number 4 in Romania's exports, and not even in top 10 for imports. The large EU countries remain Romania's main trading partners
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
PRC-connected entities own more than 25% of my country’s bilateral sovereign debt.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
5 countries chose this answer
0/ No
73 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
20 countries chose this answer
93 countries answered this indicator; 5 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Most of Romania's public debt, which is at a moderate level overall, is held by multilateral institutions; bilateral debt is negligible and PRC does not appear on the list
- https://www.bnr.ro/Datoria-externa---BPM6-11333-Mobile.aspx#SDC
- https://cursdeguvernare.ro/cine-finanteaza-romania-structura-datoriei-externe-si-creditorii-statul-e-mai-indatorat-decat-economia.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
The PRC is the top customer for my country’s extractive industries.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
69 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
29 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Romania's exports to the PRC revolve around $1 billion, the main exports being industrial products (ball bearings, electrical control boards, vehicle parts). The exports to the PRC from extractive industries are a small fraction ($0.3 billion, mostly wood) in a total of about 10 billion
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, PRC-related entities own, operate or substantially control critical infrastructure (e.g. ports, power plants, digital data centers, etc) or sensitive sectors (biotech, raw materials, etc.)
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
37 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
61 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Except for Huawei, with equipment incorporated in 3G and 4G networks, the only PRC company with a connection to what might be defined as a infrastructure is COFCO, which owns a grain terminal in Constanta harbor, which was acquired though its takeover of Dutch company Nidera. This is however only a trading installation in a competitive business, so it does not qualify as "critical infrastructure". In 2023 the government authorized the use of Lenovo equipment in the 5G networks, but not its participation in the 5G tenders as such as an operator
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country joined (or applied to join) the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
29 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
69 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Romania is a member of the AIIB since December 2018
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, major businesses are members of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce, or of the Belt and Road Industrial and Commercial Alliance, or of the Belt and Road General Chamber of Commerce.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
59 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
38 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Romania (CCIR) is a member of the Belt & Road Industrial and Commercial Alliance (BRICA). However CCIR is not a very credible institution among the local businesses, most of which, especially foreign owned, have nothing to do with it. There is no Romanian business or chamber in the Silk Road Members listed on the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce (SRCIC) website. Here the scoring should be probably more nuanced, somewhere between 0 and 4; a score of 2 would be appropriate
- https://eng.mazars.com.tr/Home/Services/Doing-business-abroad/Global-China-Services/Our-events/What-Is-BRICA
- https://srcic.org/silk-road-members/?page=3
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, financial institutions use the China Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) clearing and settlement services system.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
66 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
30 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
At the end of 2023 CIPS had 139 direct participants. In Europe, the system’s direct participants are in London, Frankfurt, Zurich, Paris, Luxembourg, Hungary and Russia
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country has been the target of PRC economic coercion (e.g. trade/investment sanctions, boycotts) after the government, private companies, or NGOs made statements or introduced policies deemed unfavorable to the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
83 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
15 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There have been no such cases of coercion against Romania, and the country is not dependent on the PRC in terms of trade or investments (see items above)
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country has free-trade agreement(s) with the PRC (either bilateral or as part of regional agreement(s)) that primarily deals with trade in goods or services, including digital goods or services.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
58 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
40 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There have been no such cases of coercion against Romania, and the country is not dependent on the PRC in terms of trade or investments (see items above)
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, central or local governments have relaxed or removed regulatory restrictions, or have established special economic zones (or free trade zones, industrial parks, etc.) to attract investments or economic participation from the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
59 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
38 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
As a member of the European Union, Romania cannot sign bilateral FTAs. Romania didn't have a free trade agreement with the PRC before joining the EU
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country has undergone a default or restructuring of a public debt arrangement with PRC-affiliated financial entities, which may have involved the transfer of my country's land or infrastructure in exchange for debt forgiveness.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
94 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
4 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In Romania, there have been no such cases involving PRC, nor loans for infrastructure building or other large projects from PRC-affiliated entities
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
Society
The Society Domain measures the extent and effectiveness of the PRC‘s efforts to advance its soft power in the Index country, including its influence over the actions and views of local organizations and citizens.
In my country, there are local groups or organizations with words like “Promotion of Peaceful Reunification” in their name, and they regularly publicize their views on Taiwan, Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang issues.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
44 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
24 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
15 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
8 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
An association exists which is named the Romanian Association for the Promotion of the Peaceful Reunification of China, but it is completely obscure, with no activity and functional website
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are members and member organizations of United World Chinese Association (世界华人协会).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
75 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
22 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There seem to be no online references to United World Chinese Association activities or members in Romania
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, labor unions have engaged with the All-China Federation of Trade Unions (ACFTU) through exchanges or official visits, received material or financial donations, or participated in training sessions offered by the ACFTU on subjects like collective bargaining.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
74 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
22 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
All activities observed are marginal: the Writers' Union of Romania has sent a delegation to the PRC at the invitation of the China Writers Association in 2018. The National Union of Romanian Employers has also received visits from PRC delegates. The Art Photographers Association of Romania has collaborated on a BRI book project organized by the China Photographers Association and received a visit of Chinese photographers in Romania. However there are few, if any, examples of cooperation between the real labor unions (in industry, services or the public sector) in Romania and China
- https://uniuneascriitorilor.ro/2018-07-09-scriitori-romani-in-franta-si-in-china-doua-noi-participari-externe-ale-uniunii-scriitorilor
- https://www.aafro.ro/relatii-internationale/europa/romania/visuri-pe-drumul-mtsii/
- https://www.agerpres.ro/comunicate/2018/04/24/comunicat-de-presa-uniunea-nationala-a-patronatului-roman--96373
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are Chinese diaspora community events and activities (e.g. Lunar New Year events, Dragon Boat Festival tournaments, etc) hosted or sponsored by organizations or personnel linked to the UFWD, or by PRC diplomats.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
0/ No
26 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
25 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
27 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
12 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Visits by PRC Embassy officials or PRC businesspersons to events of the Chinese diaspora community are common, as well as the organization by the embassy of such events, including Dragon Boat festival
- http://ro.china-embassy.gov.cn/rom/sgzcnew/sghdnew/202302/t20230210_11023163.html
- https://casaromanochineza.ro/casa-romano-chineza-prezenta-la-festivalul-barcilor-dragon-dragon-boat-race-in-romania-the-first-of-its-kind-held-in-the-eastern-european-country-marks-chinese-traditional-festival/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are PRC-connected professional associations, such as the All-China Journalists Association (中华全国新闻工作者协会), China Artists Association (中国艺术家协会), China Writers Association (中国作家协会) or All-China Women Federation (全国妇联), that are closely engaged with their local counterparts through exchanges or official visits, providing material or financial donations, or hosting training sessions.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
34 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
26 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
13 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
12 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Some contacts exist, such as those between the China Writers Association and the Writers' Union of Romania, or between the China Photographers Association and the Art Photographers Association of Romania. The embassy has also engaged with the 'International Association of Women in Bucharest.' However, all these events remain quite low-key, as the Romanian partners are completely unknown and invisible to the public, such as this women's association.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, PRC-connected individuals or entities donate money or provide other types of support to religious communities and charities.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
49 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
47 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not religious, but charity: China recently donated $150,000 to the Romanian Red Cross. Huawei has also made numerous donations to Romanian NGOs, such as Save the Children Romania, SOS Satele copiilor, etc, as well as wireless systems and devices for children with special needs.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, the PRC government or PRC-connected entities distribute entertainment products (including: drama and TV shows) or related hardwares (e.g. OTT streaming players hosting PRC media channels) freely or at a cheap price.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
39 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
30 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
13 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
7 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In Romania, both TV series and documentaries made by Chinese entities were broadcast. For example, the documentary series "China, taste and flavor" made by CCTV was broadcast on the Romanian national television station TVR2, in 2016. Also, the series The Story of Yanxi Palace, a China 2018 production, the most watched production in the country of origin for 39 consecutive days, it was broadcast in 2019 on the Romanian national television station TVR 1. However this is just a drop in the ocean of the entertainment market; South Korean productions are much more numerous and get vastly better ratings
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, PRC-connected entities are the main shareholders or developers of the top five popular social media/messaging apps, based on their usage.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
34 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
64 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
TikTok is the third most popular social media app in Romania
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are cultural events, cultural exchange projects, or cultural organizations that are funded by or receive funding from PRC-connected entities, including in sports.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
15 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
26 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
10 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
25 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
20 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Chinese Cultural Center in Bucharest and the embassy do organize events, but they are rather low key and many of them, apolitical. There were no major sport events sponsored by the PRC, while the academic exchange grants are a few dozen per year. When they try to become more visible, such as with the film festival, the event becomes a flop because the public anticipate many movies are patriotic propaganda
- https://www.facebook.com/bucharestccc
- http://ro.china-embassy.gov.cn/rom/sgzcnew/sghdnew/202210/t20221011_10781102.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, gamers, gaming communities, or game developers/publishers have been involved in freedom of speech controversies related to the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
93 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
0 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
1 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No such episodes were observed in Romania, as the emergent gaming community & industry has kept distance from politics so far
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, polling data or opinion surveys indicate that a majority of citizens hold favorable views toward the PRC government.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
8 countries chose this answer
0/ No
52 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
38 countries chose this answer
90 countries answered this indicator; 8 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are not many polls in Romania measuring attitudes towards the PRC, and the results are somewhat contradictory, or very senzitive to how questions are worded. A 2020 survey found a slightly greater positive perception than the negative one (43-39%). However a survey from 2022 found that "trust in China" was at 17% and declining. Probably most citizens don't know, or care much about the PRC actually
- https://ziare.com/social/romani/cata-incredere-au-romanii-in-politica-ue-nato-sau-a-americii-rusiei-si-china-1610977
- https://www.inscop.ro/ianuarie-2022-neincrederea-publica-vest-vs-est-ascensiunea-curentului-nationalist-in-era-dezinformarii-si-fenomenului-stirilor-false-editia-a-iv-a-capitolul-1-securitate-militara-capi/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
Military
The Military Domain gauges the bilateral military relationship between the PRC and the Index country, including PRC efforts to influence local military personnel.
My country currently imports (or receives in-kind donation of) military or law-enforcement equipment or components of equipment from the PRC.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
42 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
56 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Romania is a NATO member state so its military acquisitions are in principle in line with the North Atlantic Alliance's recommendations. Normally Romania does not supply itself with military equipment from the PRC. However during the past year of war in Ukraine, the news transpired that some institutions from the defence system have bought general-purpose drones made in China and adapted them for military use
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country’s government has participated in one or more multilateral security dialogues organized by the PRC (e.g. China-Africa Peace and Security Forum; the Conference on Interaction & Confidence Building Measures in Asia).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
56 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
42 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Romania did not participate in such security dialogues
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country co-develops or co-produces military or law-enforcement equipment with the PRC (including arrangements where PLA-affiliated professionals work in domestic labs researching dual-use technologies).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
79 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
19 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Romania is an EU and NATO member state, so it does not collaborate with the PRC on weapons development
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are reports that the PRC has expressed intentions or has taken actions to establish bases.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
84 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
13 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Romania is an EU and NATO member state and there have never been such reports or rumors about possible PRC bases
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has participated in a humanitarian relief/disaster assistance (HADR) effort.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
82 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
15 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are no documented examples of situations where the Chinese PLA has participated in a humanitarian relief/disaster assistance (HADR) effort in Romania, even during the Covid crisis
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, People’s Liberation Army (PLA) military personnel are permanently or rotationally deployed (excluding defense attaches and peacekeepers).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
91 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
6 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The only PLA military personnel deployed in Romania are defense attaches
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, military professionals have participated in military education or training programs provided by the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
55 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
41 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
A few members of the military went to China for language courses in the 1990s and early 2000s, but these were isolated cases there is no information that they proper received military education in the PRC. The Geandarmerie also benefited from trainings in traditional Chinese martial arts after 2013. Both these programs seem to have involved a limited number of people and were stopped many years ago. Military colaboration is unthinkable today, given the political alignment in our region after Russia's aggression against Ukraine and PRC's support for the former
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, senior military or civilian defense leaders have participated in bilateral meetings with PLA officers at or above the one-star rank.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
54 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
2 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
35 countries chose this answer
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no indication that such meetings might have taken place
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, high-ranking retired or current military and/or intelligence officers have received direct or deferred benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities openly or covertly (e.g. have been appointed to lucrative positions as board members or consultants with PRC-invested firms, casinos, energy companies, etc.) during or in retirement from public service.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
8 countries chose this answer
0/ No
80 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
10 countries chose this answer
90 countries answered this indicator; 8 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the Indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, high-ranking retired or current military and/or intelligence officials publicly advocate for friendly foreign policy or military cooperation with the PRC.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
4 countries chose this answer
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
27 countries chose this answer
94 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
A few retired military and intelligence officers have been affiliated with the Casa Romano-Chineza (Romanian-Chinese House, a friendship organization), but it isn't clear if they received remuneration for their positions. Most likely such positions are only honorary
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country cooperates with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on military exchange exercises, including drills and war games.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
66 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
32 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In 2009 and 2010, Romania and PRC held two joint military training exercises. There was also a military “sharing of experience” during visit in Constanta harbour by the Chinese frigate Yantai, in 2012. Here is an excerpt from a 2012 article: "The mountain troops of the two armies held two joint trainings coded "Friendship Action" in 2009 and 2010 respectively, in which they exchanged training experience with each other and improved their ability to conduct joint operations. In addition, this year, the frigate "Yantai" of the 11th Escort Task Force of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy of China conducted a five-day goodwill visit to the Black Sea port city of Constanta from July 31 to August 4, during the visit, the navies of PRC and Romania conducted multi-level friendly exchanges." After that, such joint military trainings, anyway more symbolic than substantial in nature, have ceased, as the EU and NATO have increasingly regarded the PRC as a strategic competitor, or even threat. Given the current alignment of Beijing and Moscow, such exercises would be unthinkable today
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
Law Enforcement
The Law Enforcement Domain measures law enforcement cooperation between the PRC and the Index country, as well as the nature and extent of PRC-related criminal activity in the Index country.
My country currently maintains an extradition treaty, legal mutual assistance or other similar arrangements with the PRC.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
32 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
66 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Between Romania and China there is a bilateral legal framework composed of several treaties and agreements concluded at both governmental and ministerial level, including:\n1) Treaty between Romania and the PRC on Legal Assistance in Civil and Criminal Matters, signed in Beijing: 16.I.1991 (in force: 22.I.1993);\n2) Treaty between Romania and the PRC on extradition, signed in Bucharest: 1.VII.1996 (in force: 16.I.1999)
- https://beijing.mae.ro/node/170
- https://legislatie.just.ro/Public/DetaliiDocumentAfis/65288
- https://legislatie.just.ro/Public/DetaliiDocumentAfis/50558
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, law enforcement authorities have signed cooperation agreements with the PRC on combating terrorism.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
62 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
35 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
At present there is no specific cooperation between Romania and China on counter-terrorism. The same is the situation at European level, due to the fact that China's definition of terrorism is vague. In addition, charges of terrorism are often used arbitrarily and retroactively by China against protesters and minority rights supporters, for example in Xinjiang, Tibet and Hong Kong.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, PRC-connected gangs (such as Triad, 三合会) are known to be operating in my country.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
59 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
37 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Chinese Triad operated in Romania in the 1990s and early 2000s, along with other Chinese criminal gangs. In an interview with Commissioner Constantin Marinescu, the first head of the Organised Crime Fighting Service of the Bucharest Police, he spoke in detail about how he managed the criminal groups. There were cases of crimes committed by Chinese triads against Chinese traders established in Romania that appeared in the press and even a series of assassinations that shocked the public. However, in the last 10 years there have been no more such cases, or at least they have not reached on the news.
- https://www.impact.ro/special-dosarele-comisarului-vijelie-estul-salbatic-romania-anilor-90-cum-au-fost-prinsi-asasinii-chinezilor-transati-bagati-in-geamantane-si-aruncati-in-lac-filmul-ca-129615.html
- https://www.tolo.ro/2018/01/23/cuprins-toate-capitolele-din-investigatia-gsp-cazul-shanghai
- https://gazetadecluj.ro/mafia-chineza-preluat-intreaga-exploatare-cuprului-din-romania
- https://www.libertatea.ro/stiri/secretele-comunitatii-chineze-din-romania-76528
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, security services (安保/保安) offered by private PRC companies are contracted by national or subnational governments.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
83 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
6 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
1 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are no such contracts nor PRC companies offering security services
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, law enforcement and judicial-related training offered by PRC-connected individuals or entities have been accepted by national or subnational governments.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
59 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
16 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
8 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Romanian Gendarmerie had an agreement with the People's Armed Police, which included exchanges and trainings. Over 15 training sessions, around 1,150 Romanian gendarmes were trained in traditional Chinese martial arts. These things happened more than 10 years ago, however
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, organized local criminal groups are known to have threatened or used violence to coerce, intimidate, or punish individuals critical of the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
89 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
2 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
We could not identify any instance of criminal groups threatening Chinese dissidents in Romania. In fact, such dissidents are not very visible in society, apart from the Falun Gong members who carry out peaceful, non-political activities
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are reports of cyber attacks targeting government, critical infrastructure, or enterprises that were suspected to be initiated from the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
50 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
45 countries chose this answer
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In 2019 the Ministry of Health reported a ransomware cyber attack which took place against four Romanian hospitals: "Victor Babeș" - Bucharest, Huși, Dorohoi and Alba, based on reports by the Romanian Intelligence Service. Allegedly the hackers were from the PRC, but not necessarily linked with the regime. Since then, no such activity has been reported from that direction, as most of the attacks are associated with Russia
- https://romania.europalibera.org/a/sri-suspecteaza-hackerii-care-au-atacat-spitalele-romanesti-sunt-de-origine-chineza/30012594.html
- https://www.agerpres.ro/justitie/2019/06/21/sri-autorii-atacurilor-cibernetice-de-la-spitale-de-origine-chineza--329721
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, PRC-connected individuals or entities have established extra-legal physical premises from which to surveil or detain members of the Chinese diaspora (e.g. overseas police service stations).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
5 countries chose this answer
0/ No
68 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
25 countries chose this answer
93 countries answered this indicator; 5 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Only one such case was uncovered dating back from 2016. Details are unclear but the action is plausible since this commune near Bucharest where this "police cooperation" with the city of Nantong was supposed to take place is host to a large number of Chinese citizens. However the memorandum was not acted upon and no surveillance took place
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My government has arbitrarily detained people at the behest of the PRC, such as those who engage in political activism or those who are members of minority groups.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
86 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
12 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
We have not identified any case of request by the PRC to the Romanian government related to detaining people for committing a crime involving engagements with social movements or resistance activities in Hong Kong, Xinjiang or for other human rights or civic rights issues
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country has extradited or deported individuals to the PRC despite criticism from politicians, government employees, or NGOs.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
84 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
14 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed that no extradition requests of PRC nationals have been received, or acted upon
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country has deployed video or internet surveillance systems from the PRC for law enforcement.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
4 countries chose this answer
0/ No
34 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
60 countries chose this answer
94 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Both Dahua and Hikvision are present in Romania, so it is very likely that local authorities may use them for video surveillance. But there is no public information available about such contracts
- https://www.vonmag.ro/producator/produse/prod/Dahua
- https://www.vonmag.ro/producator/produse/prod/Hikvision
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
Technology
The Technology Domain gauges the PRC‘s influence over the technology sector in the Index country, including the activity and financial leverage of PRC companies, use of PRC hardware, and bilateral research partnerships.
In my country, PRC-connected entities (such as China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom) or their subsidiaries provide telecom services.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
61 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
36 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
None of these operators provides telecom services in Romania. As an exception to the complete ban on PRC companies' participation to public tenders in Romania, Lenovo was permitted in 2023 to supply equipment for the future 5G networks. They will not become operators or co-owners of the operators, though.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, telecoms have signed agreements to adopt hardwares or technical specifications of 4G or 5G cellular networks that are produced or developed by Huawei, ZTE or other PRC enterprises.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
17 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
34 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
32 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
All telecom operators in Romania use Huawei or ZTE equipment in their 3G or 4G networks. The largest Romanian telecom player (RCS-RDS) has had a development strategy based on cheap hardware components of Chinese origin, either under the ZTE or Huawei brands, or white-label brands. Lenovo was allowed in 2023 to supply equipment for the future 5G networks
- https://www.zf.ro/business-hi-tech/video-guvernul-citu-i-exasperat-gigantii-orange-vodafone-telekom-20044002
- https://www.zf.ro/business-hi-tech/directorii-generali-orange-vodafone-digi-au-mers-impreuna-intalnire-20078399
- https://economie.hotnews.ro/stiri-telecom-26442906-chinezii-lenovo-primit-avizul-csat-ciuda-legii-securitatii-5g-decizie-semnata-ciolacu-cum-vor-afectate-sri-sie-mai-ori-mapn.htm
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, internet service providers have signed agreements to adopt hardware or technical specifications for Wi-Fi or fiber optic/broadband networks that are produced or developed by PRC enterprises.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
7 countries chose this answer
0/ No
24 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
30 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
24 countries chose this answer
91 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
As they had already established strong commercial relations with Huawei and/or ZTE for their 3G and 4G networks, most telecom operators also used their hardware for internet or telecommunication services. One Romanian TV, internet and fixed telecom provider, UPC, which was owned by Liberty Global before being acquired by Vodafone, even externalized its network management to Huawei. Vodafone Romania used to have 100% Huawei equipment in its mobile service in 2020, but Vodafone Europe said it would phase them out from the "core network" until 2025
- https://www.profit.ro/povesti-cu-profit/it-c/vodafone-romania-foloseste-exclusiv-echipamente-huawei-in-retelele-de-telefonie-mobila-raport-19381573
- https://www.mobilissimo.ro/stiri-telefoane/vodafone-renunta-la-huawei-ca-furnizor-de-echipamente-pentru-reteaua-sa-europeana-de-baza
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, PRC-connected entities are authorized to supply tech-related equipment for critical infrastructure (such as airports, public transport, government IT networks, ports etc.).
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
21 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
75 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Romanian government signed a memorandum with Huawei in 2013 to support its expansion in the country, but the national intelligence service that deals with telecommunications informed that Huawei equipment hasn't been used in critical infrastructure. In 2019, Romania became the first country to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the United States on foreign investment in 5G, effectively banning PRC suppliers from this sector. An exception was given in 2023 to Lenovo, allegedly for low-tech terminals, as shown above. It is not clear to what extent old equipment was replaced in the existing 3- and 4G networks. On surveillance systems, Dahua and Hikvision are present in Romania with products, so it is very likely that local authorities may use them for video surveillance too; no such centralized evidence exists.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, the central or local government has signed agreements to adopt biometric surveillance technology (such as facial, voice, DNA or gait recognition) produced by PRC-connected entities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
54 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
15 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
10 countries chose this answer
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There have been no reports of such collaboration in Romania. At the same time, as an EU member state, strict data protection standards are in principle applied in Romania, in accordance with the European GDPR
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, one or more cities have procured, or have signed contracts with PRC-connected entities to establish “smart city systems.”
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
48 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
18 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
20 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
6 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Most of the projects implemented with equipment from PRC companies have been small pilot projects. The two PRC companies involved in Romania in smart city projects are Huawei and ZTE. Some of the partnerships have been directly with local authorities, while in others, they only provided equipment or cooperated with telecom providers that coordinated the project and which worked with the local authorities. According to a 2020 assessment ZTE withdrew from the smart city market in Romania, while Huawei has 6 projects in the country.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country is directly served by a subsea or land-based major fiber optic internet cable built by a PRC-connected entity, or has greenlit plans for one to be built in the future.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
62 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
36 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Romania is served mainly by terrestrial wide area network cables connected to the rest of Europe, the major hubs like Frankfurt. There is no information available that PRC entities would be a major player in this network
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, PRC-affiliated venture capital, financial firms or PRC government entities invest in local technology start-ups.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
4 countries chose this answer
0/ No
43 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
13 countries chose this answer
94 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no recent information about such investments in Romania. While not a venture capital investment in a start-up, a Romanian gaming company was acquired by a company owned by Tencent a few years ago, while another was selected for a prize in Shanghai. These are very marginal and insignificant cases, though
- https://www.startupcafe.ro/idei-antreprenori/miniclip-tencent-chinezi-preluare-green-horse-games-companie-romaneasca.htm
- https://www.revistabiz.ro/start-up-romanesc-premiat-pentru-inovatie-in-china/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, companies have publicly announced that they had signed MOUs to collaborate on technological development (such as collaborations in A.I., Blockchain, Cloud Computing, Big Data) with PRC-connected entities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
38 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
20 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
18 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
17 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There have been no such announcements in Romania, with the exception of the cases of incipient cooperation on smart cities or 5G telecom infrastructure, mentioned above, which are any way uncertain and do not involve advanced technologies
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country has signed space cooperation agreements or memorandums of understanding, or formed space cooperation mechanisms with PRC-connected entities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
62 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
35 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
A meeting took place in Bucharest back in 2016 between the Romanian and PRC space agencies, but there was no follow up on these discussions. There is no information about actual cooperation between Romania and PRC entities in space-related programs
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, the central or local government(s) has collaborated with the PRC on endorsing the use of the BeiDou satellite navigation system.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
69 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
28 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no information that Romanian authorities have endorsed the Beidou satellite navigation system
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
Domestic Politics
The Domestic Politics Domain evaluates PRC efforts to influence the political landscape in the Index country, and the footprint of PRC security companies.
In my country, politicians or government employees at the sub-national level are signing agreements with the PRC government or state-owned enterprises.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
27 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
14 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
10 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
19 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
27 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Over 30 partnerships between Romanian cities and counties and regional entities in the PRC have been concluded, including the most important ones such as Bucharest, Cluj, Iasi or Constanta. Their real impact of such partnerships is not clear, however
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, local municipalities or provinces have sister-city or sister-province ties (友好城市) with municipalities or provinces in the PRC.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
6 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
17 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
21 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
18 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
36 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
According to the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there are 53 sisterhood agreements between Romania and the PRC (19 between Romanian counties and PRC provinces, 32 between cities and 3 mixed agreements)
- http://www.cdep.ro/interpel/2022/r4669A.pdf
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_twin_towns_and_sister_cities_in_Romania
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, politicians or government employees have taken trips to the PRC paid for by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
6 countries chose this answer
0/ No
47 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
17 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
11 countries chose this answer
92 countries answered this indicator; 6 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
It is likely that such trips have been organized, but there is no public information available. If so, they probably involve low level politicians or officials. One exception is Victor Ponta, forer MP and leader of PSD party, who in 2006 organized his wedding in Beijing. After 2010 he would become Prime minister and was a keen promoter of personal relationships with PRC leaders, sometimes by-passing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, these are episodes which took place about ten years ago; today Victor Ponta does not play any role in national politics. Other two former prime-ministers, both from the PSD party and out of politics, have visited Beijing in 2023 (link)
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, politicians or government employees at the local (non-national) level visit the PRC and meet with PRC officials and think tanks.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
0/ No
34 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
13 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
17 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
25 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In the past, especially before 2015-16, many Romanian officials, politicians and academics used to meet with PRC officials or visit the PRC. But after 2019 very few have done so, not just because of the Covid crisis, but because of deteriorating relations between Romania and the PRC. The officials and politicians who meet with PRC representatives to tend to be low level and/or out of office, most of them from the Sociali-Democratic Party (PSD). Sometimes the PRC ambassador in Romania manages to meet with officials at the local level or business associations (link)
- http://www.cdep.ro/interpel/2022/r4669A.pdf
- http://ro.china-embassy.gov.cn/rom/sgzcnew/sghdnew/202303/t20230316_11043178.html
- http://ro.china-embassy.gov.cn/rom/sgzcnew/sghdnew/202305/t20230518_11079502.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
Representatives of a political party in my country’s national legislature have been invited to visit the PRC or attended events hosted by the International Department of the Chinese Communist Party (中共中央对外联络部), including World Political Parties Summits, CPC in Dialogue with World Political Parties High-Level Meetings, BRICS Political Parties Dialogues, Think Tanks and Civil Society Organizations Fora, etc.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
30 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
20 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
20 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
18 countries chose this answer
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
As mentioned at the previous item, official delegations to the PRC have practically ceased after 2018-19. The last one was of a parliamentary committee on finance in 2019 and the travel was paid by the Romanian part. A few PRC delegations came to Romania after 2020 but the visits were inter-institutional and low key (see links). The representatives of the Romania-China House (a dubious friendship organization sponsored by a Romanian businessman with criminal record) took part to the BRI summit in Beijing in Oct 2023
- https://www.cdep.ro/bp/docs/F785124431/img09252019_0002.pdf
- http://ro.china-embassy.gov.cn/rom/zlgxnew/202001/t20200114_2826752.html
- https://casaromanochineza.ro/reprezentanti-ai-casei-romano-chineze-prezenti-la-forumul-cooperarii-internationale-din-cadrul-initiativei-o-centura-un-drum-care-a-avut-loc-la-beijing
- https://www.bihorjust.ro/delegatie-din-china-la-curtea-constitutionala
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, there are reports of politicians or political parties receiving campaign finance or significant in-kind donations from PRC-connected entities or individuals.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
79 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
7 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
6 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Romanian law on the financing of political parties stipulates that "the acceptance of donations from other states or foreign organisations, as well as from foreign natural or legal persons is prohibited." Isolated cases of politicians exist who in their private capacity accepted payment for services from PRC-affiliated entities, such as Huawei. The person mentioned in link later became Minister of Finance
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, groups with reported links to the United Front Work Department (UFWD) have hosted fundraisings or have provided other forms of support for government employees, politicians or parties.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
79 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
7 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
6 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There have been no politicians accused of being "anti-China", especially because very few Romanian politicians have taken positions critical of the PRC
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
PRC officials or PRC state media have criticized, harassed, or threatened local politicians, local government officials, or political parties in my country due to their activities, statements or policy advocacy.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
72 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
9 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
7 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No scu instances of open criticism of harrassment of politicians were observed
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, politicians or government employees have publicly echoed PRC talking points (e.g. denying PRC human rights issues, arguing that the PRC’s one-party political system could be beneficial for my country’s economic growth).
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
31 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
15 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
25 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
20 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Before 2018-19 it was a clichee for politicians from all parties to praise good relations with China and talk about the "traditional friendship between Romania-China." A few have sometimes praised PRC for its economic growth, infrastructure development of its general development. This happens much less often lately as the PRC lost its lustre and became a supporter of Vladimir Putin. Marginal politicians with anti-Western views may sometimes echo the PRC propaganda
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, politicians or government employees have received direct or deferred benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities openly or covertly (e.g. have been appointed to lucrative positions as board members or consultants with PRC-invested firms, casinos, energy companies, etc.) during or in retirement from public office.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
57 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
21 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
8 countries chose this answer
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Casa Romano-Chineza and the Niro Investment Group, both associated with Nicolae Dumitru, Romanian businessman with criminal record, have involved numerous former politicians in their activities. A former telecommunications minister was CEO of Niro Investment between 2018 and 2021. Most of these positions are not very lucrative, but rather honorary, however, and such things happen long after the individuals concerned lost their public duties and influence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, officials, political parties, and political elites try to suppress criticism of the PRC.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
6 countries chose this answer
0/ No
72 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
10 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
3 countries chose this answer
92 countries answered this indicator; 6 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
While Romania' official relations with the PRC have become much cooler in the last years, and policies were implemented against the PRC entities' participation in the economy, the Presidency and Ministry of Foreign Affairs studiously avoid statements or diplomatic action that may displease Beijing, such as any criticisms on human rights issues or openings towards Taiwan. They also try to discourage discreetely other officials (such as the members of Parliament) or public institutions (universities) to take similar action, but everything remains within the limits of deniability
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
Foreign Policy
The Foreign Policy Domain gauges PRC efforts to achieve diplomatic objectives by influencing key actors in the Index country.
My country’s legislature has a joint parliamentary friendship group, committee or other forms of sub-organizations with the PRC.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
24 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
72 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are 20 MPs in the Romania-PRC friendship group in the Romanian Parliament. Among them, 9 are from the Social Democrats (PSD) and 4 are from the liberals (PNL) - the current ruling coalition
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country receives foreign aid or significant in-kind donations from the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
37 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
16 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
32 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No such aid or donations exists, apart from the well-known and problematic sanitary kits delivered by PRC to many European countries at te beginning of the Covid crisis
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
The PRC provides training to diplomats or civil servants on governance from my country (such as at 国家行政学院 or 中央党校).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
50 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
13 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
13 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
14 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
We could not find any evidence supporting the assertion that the PRC provides training to Romanian diplomats or civil servants. In the current context it would be very unlikely
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
Citizens of my country have been detained in the PRC or denied exit for political reasons, a.k.a. “hostage diplomacy.”
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
81 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
17 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
According to information provided by the Romanian Embassy in Beijing, in the last 10 years, 8 Romanian citizens have been indicted in the PRC for violating Chinese criminal law, namely for committing the crimes of forgery of financial instruments, bank card fraud and fraud, embezzlement and the crime of thwarting the fight against diseases. There is no indication that there was any political motivation behind such actions
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
In my country, politicians or government officials participate in events or projects affiliated with the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED, 中国环境与发展国际合作委员会).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
4 countries chose this answer
0/ No
69 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
25 countries chose this answer
94 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
We could not find any information about Romanian officials taking part in CCICED actions
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country has signed an agreement with the PRC to classify their diplomatic relationship as a "Strategic Partnership" or beyond.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
25 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
73 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The relation is that of "special partnership". When Romanian officials like the current Minister of Labor make statements in meetings with PRC representatives about "strategic partnerships" (link), it is most likely just individual incompetence and lack of coordination on the Romanian side, and not a sign that something may change in this respect
- https://www.mae.ro/node/4852
- https://romania.europalibera.org/a/china-si-politicienii-romani/32509964.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My country unquestionably uses PRC’s "One China Principle" which articulates that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, rather than my country's own "One China Policy."
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
29 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
66 countries chose this answer
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Romanian authorities uses the sentence "one China", without specifying whether it is "principle" or "policy". In spite of the distancing from Beijing's initiatives and the anti-PRC measures introduced by governments in the last years, the wording in the diplomatic position has not changed and no rapprochement with Taiwan has occurred
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My government has supported, remained silent about, or opposed the PRC's territorial claims (such as on the South China Sea arbitration ruling issued by the UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal in July 2016); except claims over Taiwan, which are indirectly covered in indicator 7.
2024
Silence
0/ My country has rejected PRC‘s claim
21 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
60 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has adhered to PRC‘s claim
17 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Romania didn't take any public stance over PRC territorial claims, but as a member of the EU, Romania supported the common EU position to reject the PRC's claims and support the 2016 UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal Award
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My government has supported, remained silent about, or opposed the PRC's treatment, governance, or policy towards the Uyghur population in Xinjiang.
2024
Silence
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ My country has rejected PRC‘s claim
30 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
36 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has adhered to PRC‘s claim
31 countries chose this answer
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The joint statement has come out on June 14, 2022 (see the URL below)\n\nRomania was one of the 47 countries that signed the Joint Declaration on the Situation of Human Rights in China, which was read by the Netherlands at the UN Human Rights Council. The statement expressed "concern about the arbitrary detention of more than one million people in Xinjiang, along with concern about the widespread surveillance and discrimination against Uyghurs and other minorities, as well as severe restrictions on Uyghur culture and the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the right to freedom of religion or belief."\n\nHowever, at home, unlike the parliaments of the Netherlands, Canada, France, among others, the Romanian Parliament has not adopted a resolution condemning human rights violations against the Uyghur population, much less describing them as genocide, as the Dutch Parliament did. Neither the Romanian Government nor the Romanian Presidency has taken a position.\n\nOn the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the only reference to the Uyghurs is made in the context of the conditions of travel to China, with an official narrative from the People's Republic of China that the actions of the Uyghur minority are of a terrorist nature: "(...)Terrorist threats\nAccording to analyses carried out at the level of the Chinese authorities, mainly related to developments within the Uyghur minority, the risk of terrorist threats in China exists and remains high. (...)"
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My government has supported, remained silent about, or opposed the PRC's treatment, governance, or policy toward the Tibet population.
2024
Silence
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ My country has rejected PRC‘s claim
20 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
55 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has adhered to PRC‘s claim
21 countries chose this answer
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Unlike the European Parliament, the Romanian Parliament has not adopted resolutions on the human rights situation in the Tibet Autonomous Region or on cultural genocide. There is no official position on this issue from the Romanian Presidency or the Government
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.
My government has supported, remained silent about, or opposed the PRC's ongoing repression in Hong Kong, such as the imposition of the National Security Law or other actions to persecute Hong Kong protestors or activists.
2024
Silence
0/ My country has rejected PRC‘s claim
25 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
46 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has adhered to PRC‘s claim
27 countries chose this answer
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Romanian Parliament has not adopted resolutions on the repression in Hong Kong and the persecution of pro-democracy activists. There is no official position on this issue from the Romanian Presidency or the Government
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.