19. The Belt and Road Initiative (2013-)
In 2013, Chinese President Xi Jinping launched the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a vast infrastructure and economic development project aimed at enhancing global trade and stimulating economic growth across Asia and beyond. The BRI comprises two main components: – **Silk Road Economic Belt**: This overland route connects China to Europe through Central Asia, facilitating trade and investment. – **21st Century Maritime Silk Road**: This sea-based route links China to Southeast Asia, Africa, and Europe via major sea lanes, promoting maritime trade. The initiative involves building and expanding infrastructure such as railways, highways, ports, and energy pipelines, aiming to improve connectivity and foster economic cooperation among participating countries. As of 2023, over 140 countries have signed agreements or expressed interest in BRI projects, reflecting China’s growing influence in global economic affairs (cfr.org).
