What exactly is China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and why has it become one of the most consequential global development projects of the 21st century? In this conversation, host Raza Rumi speaks with Professor Hassan H. Karrar, Associate Professor at LUMS and a specialist in China and Central Asia, about the BRI as a mechanism of global connectivity, infrastructure investment, trade, and geopolitical influence. Professor Karrar explains how the BRI differs from the historical Silk Road, why China has become a leading financier and builder of global infrastructure, and how the initiative is reshaping conversations about development in Pakistan, Central Asia, Africa, and beyond. The discussion also addresses key criticisms: Is CPEC or BRI a new form of empire? What happens to local communities, fishing grounds, land rights, the environment, and public consultation when large infrastructure projects are built? Who benefits—and who loses? Topics covered: What is the Belt and Road Initiative?
BRI as a mechanism for global connectivity
The historical Silk Road versus the “New Silk Road”
Chinese investment, infrastructure, ports, railways and digital connectivity
China’s development model and poverty reduction
BRI, CPEC and China’s soft power
Is BRI comparable to the East India Company?
Environmental, land and community concerns around major projects
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