Each of the efforts, in varying ways, faces obstacles.
The nation’s top leader, Xi Jinping, will need close cooperation from border countries, some of which are politically volatile, like Kyrgyzstan, or internationally isolated, like North Korea.
Neighboring countries that have long been wary of China, like Vietnam, will need to be reassured.
But others have warned of Chinese domination of the Laotian economy.
The new initiatives would also be expensive, and China has begun emphasizing smaller Belt and Road projects elsewhere.
Persons:
Xi Jinping, ”, Ja Ian Chong
Organizations:
National University of Singapore
Locations:
Kyrgyzstan, North Korea, China, Vietnam, Laos, Southeast Asia, Russia, Ukraine