Keywords
China
Indo-Pacific
United States
Competation
How to Cite
Abstract
The Belt and Road Initiative has emerged as a pivotal framework for understanding contemporary geopolitical dynamics, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. This research paper explores the multifaceted dimensions of the BRI, analysing its implications for regional security. At its core, the BRI seeks to enhance connectivity and economic integration through infrastructure development, yet it simultaneously acts as a conduit for expanding China's influence. As nations navigate the complexities of this initiative, concerns arise regarding sovereignty, debt diplomacy, and the potential for increased strategic competition between China and Western powers, particularly the United States. This competition is underscored by differing visions for regional order and security, prompting responses that range from engagement to containment. This paper elucidates the intricate interplay between economic ambition and geopolitical rivalry, highlighting the BRI's role as both an opportunity for development and a catalyst for tension. This paper explores the BRI's impact on geopolitical dynamics, power shifts, and regional actors' responses in an evolving security landscape.
References
1. Baltensperger, M. (2019). The Belt and Road turns five. Bruegel Policy Contribution.
2. Cau, E. (2018). Geopolitical Implications of the Belt and Road Initiative: The Backbone for a New World Order? Contemporary Chinese Political Economy and Strategic Relations: An International Journal Vol. 4, No. 1, April 2018, pp. 39-105
3. Chan, S. (2018). The Belt and Road Initiative: Implications for China and East Asian Economies. The Copenhagen Journal of Asian Studies 35(2).
4. Karen Pitakdumrongkit, K. (2019). The Impact of the Trump Administration's Indo-Pacific Strategy on Regional Economic Governance. Honolulu, East-West Centre
5. Ram, V. (2015). The Proposal for an Indo-Pacific Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation: A Critical Reassessment. Journal of ASEAN Studies, Vol. 3, No. 1, pp. 22-31.
6. Tertia, J. & Agung Banyu Perwita, A. (2018). Maritime Security in Indo-Pacific: Issues, Challenges, and Prospects. Parahyangan Centre for International Studies.
7. The BRI and Sino-Indian Geo-Economic Competition in Bangladesh: Coping Strategy of a Small State. Strategic Analysis.
8. Vuving, A. (2020). The Strategic Environment of the US-Australia Alliance in the Indo-Pacific Era. Routledge.
9. Wu, X. & Ji, Y. (2020). The military drivers of China's Belt and Road Endeavour. China Review, vol. 20, No. 4, pp. 223-244
10. Zhang E. and James P. (2023). All Roads Lead to Beijing: Systemism, Power Transition Theory and the Belt and Road Initiative. Chin Polit Sci Rev.;8(1):18-44. doi: 10.1007/s41111-022-00211-x.
11. Zhao M. (2021). The Belt and Road Initiative and China–US Strategic Competition. China Int Strategy Rev. ;3(2):248–60. doi: 10.1007/s42533-021-00087-7.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Copyright (c) 2026 South India Journal of Social Sciences