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Navy Journal 2019

application of ‘Realpolitik’. India’s assertion of such feelings is interpreted as
many western scholars ‘often compare China and India to the Dragon and
Elephant and label their relationship as one of confrontation and competition’
(Li, 2015). As can be seen from the map 4 below, China’s BRI or Maritime Silk
Road (MSR) is a complex econo-diplomatic and geopolitical ambition that has
transformed through various manifestations.

Reviving the Silk Road

Map 4: China’s BRI (MSR) in Eurasia and Africa
The BRI envisages a US$1.3 trillion investment programme in creating a
network of infrastructures such as ports, roads, railways, telecommunications
and energy pipelines in Asia, Africa and Europe. This initiative is ‘real’ and
expected to enhance Chinese sphere of influence practically in the realm of not
only economic interconnectivity but also contribute to economic growth
including development across more than 60 partner nations. First proposed in
September 2013, it may not be imprudent to posit that BRI is the Beijing style
‘Realpolitik’ – the translation and application of a far-sighted ‘real’ foreign
policy initiative of the Chinese President Xi Jinping. There is no doubt that a
project of such unprecedented magnitude having crucial geopolitical and
geo-economic scope is likely to relegate other players in the race particularly in
the IOR. 21

21. http://theconversation.com/the-belt-and-road-initiative-chinas-vision-for-globalisation-beijing-style-77705, accessed on 05 Dec 2018.

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