An evocative history of East and West embraced in cultural and economic exchange, today the Silk Road is remapping international affairs.
Invented in 1877, the story of the Silk Road was overshadowed by twentieth century nationalism and a world dominated by conflict and Cold War standoffs. As China aims to “revive” the Silk Roads for the twenty-first century through its Belt and Road Initiative, ideas of civilizations in dialogue, harmonious trade and cultural exchange take on new significance.
Asia’s ascendant power is framing its trade, diplomatic, infrastructure and geopolitical ambitions in a story of regional, even global connectivity, at the heart of which sits Chinese civilization.
Silk Road Futures demonstrates Belt and Road is as much a geocultural project as it is geoeconomic and geopolitical.
