Which initiative does India oppose that is central to China’s regional connectivity strategy?
A. ASEAN
B. Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
C. Eurasian Economic Union
D. BRICS
Explanation:
India opposes China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is a core part of the BRI. India’s opposition stems from concerns over sovereignty, as CPEC passes through Pakistan-administered Kashmir, which India claims as its own. Additionally, India is wary of China’s growing influence in the region through its connectivity projects. Despite being a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), India has been critical of certain initiatives that align closely with China’s strategic interests, such as the BRI.
What is China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)?
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a massive project started by China in 2013. It aims to build infrastructure that connects Asia, Europe, and other parts of the world, making trade easier and faster. The project is also called the New Silk Road because it follows the idea of the ancient Silk Road that once connected China to Europe.
Why Was the BRI Launched?
China launched the BRI to improve its connections with other countries and boost trade. The project includes building roads, railways, ports, and energy systems across many regions. It started with a focus on linking East Asia with Europe, but now it covers Africa, Latin America, and Oceania as well.
The Original Silk Road: What Was It?
The original Silk Road was a group of trade routes that started during China’s Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). These routes connected China with Central Asia, India, Pakistan, and Europe. Traders used the road to move valuable goods like silk, spices, and precious metals. It played a key role in bringing together different cultures and economies.
How Does the Belt and Road Initiative Work?
China’s BRI has two main parts:
1. Silk Road Economic Belt: This is the land-based part, focusing on building roads and railways across Asia and Europe.
2. Maritime Silk Road: This is the sea-based part, focusing on improving ports and sea routes to make trade by sea easier.
These two parts together are now known as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Why Are Some Countries Concerned About the BRI?
Some countries and analysts are worried that the BRI gives China too much power over the countries that join the project. The costs of many of the projects have gone up a lot, and some countries have started to oppose them. The United States is also concerned that the BRI might be a way for China to expand its influence and military power in Asia.
What Is the U.S. Response to the BRI?
The U.S. has been skeptical about China’s BRI. President Joe Biden, like previous U.S. leaders, has expressed concerns about China’s growing influence. However, the U.S. has found it challenging to offer better economic opportunities to the countries that are part of the BRI.
What Happened to the Original Silk Road?
The original Silk Road was most active during the Roman Empire and China’s Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE). However, wars and changes in the region eventually slowed down trade. Today, Central Asian countries, once the heart of the Silk Road, are more dependent on Russia, especially for economic support, and do not trade much with each other.
Conclusion
China’s Belt and Road Initiative is a modern version of the Silk Road, aiming to connect the world through infrastructure projects. While it promises growth and development, it also raises concerns about China’s rising influence and the long-term impact on the countries involved.
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