Documenting the New Silk Road

The Belt and Road Initiative has sparked a discussion about a new phase in global economic integration and the potential reordering of the international system. Uwe Hoering, a German journalist and development policy expert with extensive experience covering China's role in Asia and Africa, offers a timely and accessible introduction to this vast subject in his book "Der Lange Marsch 2.0" (The Long March 2.0).

The Stiftung Asienhaus, which co-published the book, has made supplementary materials available online, including chapter excerpts. An English translation has since been released as a free PDF download, extending the book's reach beyond German-speaking audiences.

As we move into March 2018, significant developments continue to shape the Belt and Road landscape. This monthly highlights post brings together recent news, observations from the road, and analysis of trends that are worth watching.

The European Parliament has published extensive analysis on EU-China relations, highlighting both opportunities and concerns. Whilst individual member states may pursue their own engagements with the BRI, there is growing recognition that a coordinated European approach is necessary.

When we speak of the Belt and Road Initiative, images of ancient caravan routes through Central Asian deserts or maritime passages through the South China Sea typically come to mind. Yet Beijing's connectivity ambitions extend far beyond these traditional corridors—reaching into one of the planet's most remote and rapidly changing regions: the Arctic.

According to analysis from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, China's Arctic interests encompass shipping routes, natural resources, and scientific research. The potential commercial benefits are significant: the Northern Sea Route can reduce shipping times between China and Europe by up to two weeks compared to the traditional route through the Suez Canal.