The Modern Silk Road

China's lofty expansion into the West

China’s President Xi Jinping implemented an international infrastructure strategy called the “Belt and Road Initiative” in 2013. Also known as the Modern Day Silk Road, it is to take in over more than half of the world’s GDP or Gross Domestic Product and involves over 150 countries. It has a similar magnitude to the American Marshall Plan. This project involves maritime and land routes from China westward to Western Europe.

Central Asia, like the ancient Silk Road, is at the heart of the land Silk Road. The transportation along these terrains is Herculean to think about in terms of construction. What is also fascinating is the way the maritime Silk Road is structured. It encompasses Southeast Asia, Oceania, and Africa, with an emphasis in Africa because of the natural resources there.

Undoubtedly, China is really going for influence throughout as an up and coming leader. The United States is aware that the Chinese are capable of increasing not just their economy but also other political aspirations. China is increasing their military might and presence. This looks like a challenge for America in terms of their presence abroad and their economic posture.

This project is not without controversy as one may know that China is not a leader in human rights. There are many workers abroad on this and who knows how many accidents go unannounced to the public. No one can do anything about this but at what point is too much too much? Will it eventually be complete or conflicting?

Sources: https://www.lowyinstitute.org/publications/understanding-china-s-belt-road-initiative

https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/chinas-massive-belt-and-road-initiative