The Iran trade routes that U.S. sanctions helped build
Washington calls it maximum pressure. Tehran calls it an opportunity. After four decades of sanctions, Iran has built a parallel trade architecture that is already operational
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BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE
A look inside China’s African ports
Beijing isn’t just building infrastructure; it’s engineering a new world order, one dock at a time. This is the story of China’s African ports, a multi-billion-dollar venture reshaping global trade, sovereignty, and power
Building an empire without borders: China’s BRI 2.0 and the power of code
While the West obsessed over ports, rails, and debt ratios, Beijing quietly shifted course. BRI 2.0 replaces concrete with code, building technological dependence that reshapes global power, standards, and geopolitical alignment
The Dragon’s digital tentacles: Securing Europe’s underbelly
China’s infrastructure investments in Europe’s Southeastern Periphery, though seemingly civilian, increasingly raise security concerns. This excerpt from a new study reveals Beijing’s strategic leverage through dual-use capabilities, challenging Western paradigms
The Panama ports deal: Power, politics, and profit
A controversial ports deal involving CK Hutchison and BlackRock sparks debates on China’s national interests, security, and global power dynamics
The geopolitical significance of COSCO’s presence in Piraeus
Maria Zacharia, Member of the European Parliament, explores the dangerous geopolitical implications of COSCO’s control over the Port of Piraeus and its impact on Greece, the EU, and NATO
China’s economy 2024: Milestones achieved and strategic challenges ahead for 2025
China’s economy showcased resilience in 2024 with record grain production, green energy milestones, and global trade growth. However, rising U.S. tariffs in 2025 pose significant challenges for sustained growth
China’s expanding security footprint in Africa: Challenges and scenarios for the future
China’s economic ambitions in Africa have necessitated a growing security presence. With rising instability, private contractors play a pivotal role in safeguarding Beijing’s interests and nationals
Hainan Free Trade Port: A strategic leap in global economic integration
Hainan’s transformation into a Free Trade Port (FTP) reflects China’s ambition for global trade integration, bolstered by innovative port infrastructure and regulatory reforms
TEN-T Network: Europe’s strategic response to China’s Belt and Road Initiative
The Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) is the EU’s ambitious project to transform European transport infrastructure and counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative