Documenting the New Silk Road

Walk through the upscale neighbourhoods of Shanghai, Beijing, or Shenzhen, and you will likely encounter a sight that would have been unthinkable just a few decades ago: well-groomed dogs in designer outfits being walked by doting owners. China's pet industry has exploded in recent years, growing from a modest market worth a few billion yuan in the early 2000s to a sector now valued at over 800 billion yuan. At the heart of this transformation is a remarkable cultural shift, where hypoallergenic breeds like the Goldendoodle, Poodles, and French Bulldogs have become coveted accessories among China's aspirational classes.

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.