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Europe stands once again at a historic crossroads. For centuries it has been both stage and actor in the drama of civilization, the birthplace of democracy and philosophy, yet also the theater of conflict and empire. Today its challenge is not territorial but existential: whether to remain a chessboard where others move the pieces or to become the chess player, the one who shapes its own destiny.

The unipolar world that followed the Cold War is over. Power is diffusing across regions, technologies and cultures. The new forces that define influence, from artificial intelligence and energy transition to data and demographics, are redrawing the global map. In this shifting landscape, Europe must rediscover leadership as vision, courage and the will to act.

Security remains the foundation. The war in Ukraine reminded us that peace is not permanent and that deterrence still matters. From the Black Sea to the Sahel, new frontlines of instability emerge. Europe must turn strategic autonomy from a slogan into action, to lead when others hesitate.

Energy and technology are the engines of modern power. From the Caspian to the Mediterranean, interconnectivity can become a new diplomacy of peace. Europe must not only consume what others create but must innovate, invest and attract talent, including from partners such as China.

Europe's relationship with China is a cornerstone of this new era. It must be based on mutual respect, reciprocity and dialogue, promoting balance between competition and cooperation. Europe and China share a responsibility to maintain open communication and to work together on issues that transcend borders such as climate change, sustainable growth and technological governance. 

Demography adds another layer of urgency. A rapidly aging Europe faces a youthful Africa and a dynamic Asia. Migration cannot be governed by fear but by vision and partnership. A prosperous and stable Africa is not a favor to the South; it is an investment in Europe's own stability and in that dimension cooperation with China can be beneficial. Joint development projects that leverage European and Chinese funding could strengthen Africa's growth, create opportunities for youth and reinforce global stability through shared responsibility.

Democracy must also prove that it can still deliver. Polarization and disinformation corrode trust, and Europe must lead by example, upholding its values of pluralism, justice and human rights and delivering strong economic performance. Citizens must feel that democracy protects their dignity, secures their livelihoods and offers a credible vision for the future.

Finally, the global order itself demands renewal. Institutions born after 1945 must evolve to meet the realities of a digital and interconnected century. Europe, the continent that once turned enemies into allies, can again become the architect of a new compact for peace, sustainability and fairness.

Leadership begins where fear ends. Europe has the resources, the talent and the moral authority to lead. What it now needs is courage, the courage to decide, to act and to dream. As great Athenian historian Thucydides wrote, leadership is the key variable to understand the success or failure of states.

The author is former minister for foreign affairs and former minister for national defense of Greece. opinion@globaltimes.com.cn