The Belt and Road Initiative in Asia, Africa, and Europe

This book explores the progress and reception of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Asia, Africa, and Europe, analyzing how well it accommodates subregional variation and how liberal powers compete with it. It also assesses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the BRI and its future implications.

Format: Hardback
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the progress and reception of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) across key subregions of Asia, Africa, and Europe. By examining the diverse characteristics of each continent, the book explores the extent to which the BRI accommodates subregional variations as it aims to bring Asia, Africa, and Europe under Chinese influence. Individual chapters focus on the experiences of developing subregions in their interactions with China, while others examine the strategies employed by liberal powers to rival China's BRI agenda. Additionally, the contributions assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the BRI in regional contexts and offer insights into its future implications. Providing a panoramic perspective of the vast mosaic of Asian, African, and European subregions targeted by the BRI, this book appeals to scholars and students of International Relations, Global Political Economy, Chinese politics, and those with a broader interest in the Belt and Road Initiative.

Introduction:
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a visionary project launched by China in 2013, with the aim of promoting economic cooperation, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange between China and its neighboring countries. Since its inception, the BRI has garnered significant attention and interest from both scholars and policymakers worldwide. This book aims to examine the progress and reception of the BRI in key subregions of Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Asia:
In Asia, the BRI has been met with mixed reactions. Some countries have welcomed the initiative as a means of boosting economic growth and improving connectivity, while others have expressed concerns about its implications for regional stability and sovereignty. One of the key challenges facing the BRI in Asia is the varying levels of development among its member states. Some countries, such as China and Japan, are already well-developed and have the resources and infrastructure to participate in the BRI, while others, such as many Southeast Asian countries, are still in the process of economic development and may struggle to benefit from the initiative.

Africa:
In Africa, the BRI has been seen as a potential game-changer for the continent's development. The initiative aims to invest in infrastructure, promote trade, and facilitate cultural exchange between China and African countries. However, there are also concerns about the sustainability of the BRI and its potential impact on local economies and environments. Some critics argue that the BRI is primarily focused on Chinese interests and may not benefit African countries in the long term.

Europe:
In Europe, the BRI has received a more positive reception. Many countries see the initiative as an opportunity to strengthen economic ties with China and promote regional cooperation. However, there are also concerns about the BRI's impact on European values and sovereignty. Some critics argue that the BRI is a tool for China to exert its influence and control over its neighbors and may undermine the European Union's role in the region.

Conclusion:
Overall, the progress and reception of the BRI in Asia, Africa, and Europe have been complex and multifaceted. While the initiative has brought about some benefits, such as increased economic cooperation and infrastructure development, it has also raised concerns about regional stability, sovereignty, and sustainability. As the BRI continues to evolve and expand, it will be important for China and its partners to address these concerns and ensure that the initiative benefits all parties involved.

Weight: 760g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367741402