China’s Belt and Road Initiative: Impact on South Asia’s Geopolitical Landscape and Regional Dynamics

Sanghamitra Mallick

Jadavpur Journal of International Relations, 2024, vol. 28, issue 1, 7-30

Abstract: China has significantly strengthened its South Asian presence through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), outspreading financial assistance and infrastructure projects to developing nations. This article describes how the initiative is viewed as a geopolitical strategy driven by dual motives of economic progress and national interests. China’s encircling India through strategic ports and trade routes is referred to as the ‘string of pearls.’ China’s enhancement of its naval strength, particularly around crucial locations such as Gwadar and Hambantota, is essential in shaping economic, geopolitical, and security dynamics from the Strait of Malacca to Hormuz. Beijing’s presence and influence in this region create competition and uneasiness for India, challenging its traditional dominance in the region and leading to strategic competition, and geopolitical tension. This study adopts a qualitative approach based on secondary data from various sources. However, the BRI has raised several challenges and concerns, such as social risks, debt sustainability, transparency, and security issues. Moreover, the initiative has grabbed the attention of major powers, such as the United States, Japan, and the European Union, who have offered counter majors to BRI in South Asia. This article critically analyzes the opportunities and challenges posed by BRI in South Asia, exploring its implications for regional dynamics and the potential for multilateral cooperation.

Keywords: BRI; Chinese influence; South Asia; power dynamic; Maritime Silk Road (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:sae:jadint:v:28:y:2024:i:1:p:7-30

DOI: 10.1177/09735984251327850

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