Publication

This commentary discusses China's proposed ‘Silk Road Economic Belt’ project, which envisions the creation of infrastructural networks as well as the convergence of capital and currency integration in the regions between China and Europe, bypassing Russia. More specifically, the author examines 1) what lies behind China’s desire to recreate the ancient Silk Road; 2) if it is simply a move to counter Russian influence; and 3) whether China has tangible interests to defend in Central Asia.