As Brussels painstakingly deliberates the merits of aspiring European Union members in the Balkans, Beijing has begun an investment offensive in the region. But is China’s money talking economics or politics?

• 5 March 2010

The European Court of Human Rights is set to rule on a $98 billion claim against Russia by bankrupt oil company Yukos. Former executives say the company was broken up illegally by the Kremlin.

• 5 March 2010

Gas and electricity projects to receive ?2.3bn from the European economic recovery package.

• 4 March 2010

China says it will end a long period of double-digit growth in military spending, but its 7.5% target will still alarm the West.

• 4 March 2010

China says it will end a long period of double-digit growth in military spending, but its 7.5% target will still alarm the West.

• 4 March 2010

Parliament expresses frustration over being sidelined in formation of new diplomatic corps.

• 4 March 2010

Trade commissioner wants to initial free-trade negotiations with Vietnam.

• 4 March 2010

Voters in the Netherlands have gone to the polls in municipal elections. Political parties opposing Muslim immigration are expected to gain ground in the run-up to early national elections in June.

• 4 March 2010