China's Hegemonic Strategy through the Belt Road Initiative: Implications for Political and Security Governance in Asia
Strategi Hegemoni China melalui Belt Road Initiative: Implikasi terhadap Tata Kelola Politik dan Keamanan di Asia
Abstract
This study aims to analyze China's strategy to establish itself as a new hegemon in Asia through the implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Using a descriptive-qualitative method and the international political economy approach, this research examines BRI from the perspectives of mercantilism and liberalism. The findings indicate that BRI functions as a strategic tool for China to expand its political and economic influence by investing heavily in global infrastructure. The program enhances international connectivity, accelerates trade, and creates employment opportunities in partner countries. However, concerns about a debt trap and economic dependency have emerged in some recipient nations. The study concludes that BRI exemplifies modern mercantilism, positioning China as a dominant actor in the emerging political and security governance of Asia.
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