The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) presented an ambitious plan to link Asia and Europe through infrastructure, gaining the buy-in of many countries. However, it soon became apparent that the loans associated with BRI led to debt traps for borrowing countries, strategically benefiting China. Critics dismissing debt trap diplomacy as a myth fail to acknowledge the control and gains China secures through these initiatives.
Tag Archives: Stability
Chinese Weaponization of Global Trade
It appears that while conflicts are erupting across the globe, one hotspot remains after all of the dust settles – Taiwan. It is arguable that we will see a degree of resolution in the middle-east and even in Europe, it seems there are slivers of hope that a compromise can be reached in conflicts inContinue reading “Chinese Weaponization of Global Trade”
Manila Retracts Termination of VFA
On July 29, 2021, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held meetings with Senior Philippine Officials about geopolitical concerns in the region. Immediately following these talks, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte issued a statement that effectively retracts a termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), which had been in place for the past 70 years. Old Friends,Continue reading “Manila Retracts Termination of VFA”
The Child of the Sun
A look into contemporary issues impacting the Philippines. The Philippines has been referred to by its countrymen as “The Child of the Sun.” It appears that a recurring theme amongst countries in this region incorporate the sun into their flags, mottos, and folklore. Whereas Japan is known as the “Land of the Rising Sun” andContinue reading “The Child of the Sun”
Philippine President Raises Stakes in the South China Sea
May 17, 2021 The Daily Express reports on May 15,2021, that the Philippines increased maritime presence in the contested waters of the South China Sea. In recent months, the People’s Republic of China established what is internationally viewed as a “provocative” presence in contested areas of the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). To date, PhilippineContinue reading “Philippine President Raises Stakes in the South China Sea”
Philippines Security Watch 