China's Belt and Road Initiative: Strategic and Economic Impacts on Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and Central Eastern Europe

This edited volume evaluates the strategic and economic impacts of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and Central Eastern Europe, challenging mainstream interpretations and highlighting the need for a more realistic view of its economic benefits. It includes case studies from Finland, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Poland, Thailand, South Asia, and Africa, and encourages critical thinking about the BRI's aims and impacts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This edited volume offers a comprehensive and multifaceted evaluation of the strategic and economic implications of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) across three regions: Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and Central Eastern Europe. The contributions to this book underscore the need for a more realistic assessment of the anticipated economic benefits of the New Silk Road. The contributors examine the strategic consequences of China's opaque long-term grand strategy on the regional and global political landscape. Specific countries covered include Finland, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Poland, and Thailand. Additionally, case studies from South Asia and Africa, notably India and Ethiopia, provide valuable insights for comparative analysis. By encouraging readers to critically interrogate mainstream interpretations of the BRI's aims and outcomes, this book appeals to scholars and students from diverse disciplines, including Political Science, International Relations, Political Geography, Sociology, Economics, International Development, and Chinese Studies.

Introduction:
The BRI, launched by China in 2013, is a vast infrastructure project aimed at connecting China with Europe, Asia, and Africa through a network of roads, railways, ports, and power plants. The initiative has garnered significant attention and interest from both policymakers and scholars due to its potential to reshape global economic and political dynamics. This edited volume seeks to contribute to the ongoing debate by presenting a diverse range of perspectives and analyses on the BRI's impacts in the three regions mentioned above.

Chapter 1:
In the first chapter, the authors explore the historical and cultural context of the BRI and its implications for regional cooperation. They argue that the BRI offers an opportunity for China to strengthen its ties with its neighbors and promote economic development. However, they also raise concerns about the potential risks and challenges associated with the initiative, such as environmental degradation, political instability, and cultural clashes.

Chapter 2:
Chapter 2 examines the economic impacts of the BRI on the three regions. The authors highlight the potential benefits of increased trade and investment flows, as well as the potential challenges posed by regional disparities and economic imbalances. They also discuss the role of local governments and businesses in shaping the BRI's outcomes and the need for sustainable development practices.

Chapter 3:
Chapter 3 focuses on the strategic implications of the BRI for regional security. The authors argue that the initiative can enhance regional stability by promoting economic cooperation and reducing geopolitical tensions. However, they also raise concerns about the potential for the BRI to be used as a tool for geopolitical competition and the risks associated with China's increasing military presence in the region.

Chapter 4:
Chapter 4 explores the social and cultural impacts of the BRI on the three regions. The authors argue that the initiative can promote cultural exchange and understanding, as well as provide opportunities for social development. However, they also raise concerns about the potential for the BRI to exacerbate existing social inequalities and the impact of Chinese investment on local communities.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this edited volume provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate on the BRI's impacts. The contributions demonstrate the need for a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the initiative's strategic and economic implications. While the BRI offers significant opportunities for regional cooperation and economic development, it is also important to address the potential risks and challenges associated with the initiative. By encouraging critical thinking and dialogue, this book can help policymakers and scholars better navigate the complex terrain of the BRI and its implications for the global political and economic landscape.

Weight: 526g
Dimension: 162 x 240 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367515904