The Global Rise of China Project was established in late 2016 to explore the profound challenges and strategic implications of China's rise as a global power. As one of the most significant geopolitical shifts of the 21st century, China's ascendancy has far-reaching consequences for regional and global politics. This project focuses on understanding the dynamics of China’s foreign policy, its relationships with key global powers, and its growing influence in regional and international institutions.
Project Focus Areas
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China’s Foreign Policy Interests and Goals
The project delves into China’s evolving foreign policy agenda and strategic objectives. As China seeks to expand its global footprint, we analyze its diplomatic efforts, economic initiatives, and military objectives across Asia and beyond. -
China’s Relations with Neighbors and Major Powers
The project examines China’s interactions with key regional players, such as India, Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia, while also analyzing its relations with global powers like the United States, Russia, and the European Union. These relationships are crucial in understanding China’s efforts to secure its global influence. -
China’s Growing Role in Regional and Global Institutions
The project investigates China’s increasing participation in global governance. This includes its active role in organizations like the United Nations, World Trade Organization (WTO), ASEAN, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), alongside its leadership in new institutions like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
Research Areas
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One Belt One Road (BRI) Initiative:
Examining China’s ambitious global infrastructure plan and its impact on international trade routes, regional integration, and geopolitical influence. The BRI is a central element in China’s strategy to expand its economic and political presence across Asia, Africa, and Europe. -
Maritime Disputes:
Analyzing China’s role in territorial conflicts in the South China Sea and its growing military and economic presence in contested waters, with broader implications for international maritime trade and regional security. -
Energy Security:
Investigating China’s strategies to secure energy resources, focusing on its domestic policies and international agreements that seek to safeguard energy supplies to fuel its economic growth. -
Military and Security Policy:
Focusing on China’s military modernization, defense policies, and growing military influence, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. The project looks at how China’s expanding defense capabilities affect global security and regional stability. -
Regional and Global Organizational Influence:
Analyzing China’s growing involvement in multilateral organizations and its influence in shaping the global rules-based order. This includes its role in organizations such as the United Nations and its expanding influence in economic and security frameworks across the world.
Project Goals
The Global Rise of China Project aims to offer a comprehensive, nuanced understanding of China’s rise and its implications for the global order. Through rigorous research and analysis, the project provides insights into the strategic challenges and opportunities that China’s growing influence presents to other global powers, regional players, and international institutions. Ultimately, the project seeks to offer constructive policy recommendations for navigating the evolving geopolitical landscape shaped by China’s ascent.