Nearly ten years ago, China launched its colossal infrastructure investment program, the ‘Belt and Road Initiative.’ 147 countries worldwide have signed agreements associated with this endeavor, including eight of the nine countries in the Caspian Region. China’s growing influence has fundamentally changed the economies of Central Asia, but it has come with significant costs. Implications of the Covid-19 pandemic, an estimated $1.6 trillion in unpaid debts globally, and abandoned infrastructure projects have complicated the region’s economic capacities and demanded a reassessed approach from the United States and alternative trade partners. 

In this panel, speakers will address some of the opportunities and obstacles Central Asian governments face with China’s BRI investments. What are the broader geopolitical implications of Central Asia’s cooperation with China? How can Central Asian governments balance economic growth with financial, environmental, and labor concerns at home? And how can the United States help confront the issues of BRI investments and projects in Central Asia?

The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host leading regional experts to address these questions and discuss Central Asia’s future role in China’s BRI and how the United States can respond to its implications. 

Adress: Conference Room, 1015 15th ST, NW Suite 380, Washington DC 20005

RSVP to Haley Nelson   [email protected]

If you want to attend to the event online, Please register here.