The Belt and Road Initiative: Analysing the Chinese Proposition from an Indian Perspective

Abstract

The New Silk Route born out of Chinese geo-strategic and economic compulsions derives its legitimacy from the historic Silk Route. However, the global scenario is no longer the same and could signal the rise of tensions and challenges in the already conflict-ridden world. The revival of the glory of the Middle Kingdom might come at a heavy price. As China plans to revive the centuries old Silk Route and revitalize it into a 21st century institution - integrating countries and routes into a harmonious architecture, the global order stands to experience an upheaval. The scheme has its own set of advantages and perils thereby participating nations have a lot to gain or lose from it. The world today is riddled in conflicts of borders and resources, an amalgamation and assimilation of the Eurasian commerce and ties will need an overhaul of the existing power relations.