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By Mark DaCosta- In July 2018, the Government of Guyana announced the intention to deepen its participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by the signing of China’s “BRI Cooperation Plan.” The plan makes provisions for linking Guyana’s entire 2030 development strategy to the BRI. Guyana also committed to establishing a Guyana-China “Investment and Economic Cooperation Working Group” to advance Chinese projects and interests in Guyana.
In July of this year – 2023 – a joint communique was issued by the governments of China and Guyana. The document stated that the “Guyanese side applauded China’s proposals of the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilisation Initiative.”
It said with “reference to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Cooperation within the Framework of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the Twenty First Century Maritime Silk Road Initiative, signed between the two sides on July 27, 2018, the Guyana side expressed willingness to discuss and conclude the Joint Action Plan on Promotion of the Belt and Road Initiative with the Chinese side.”
Based on the facts stated, it is clear that Guyana has expanded, some analysts say an unprecedented embrace of diplomatic, security and economic intimacy under the blanket of the BRI. The consequence of which analysts believe ties Guyana’s future to China’s BRI and dependency.
Considering the huge scope of the BRI, it is amazing that the Government of Guyana is not making any effort to educate Guyanese about what it is.
In recent years, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has emerged as one of the most ambitious and controversial global development projects ever conceived. Launched in 2013 by President Xi Jinping of China, the BRI aims to enhance connectivity and foster economic cooperation between China and countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, and beyond. At least, those are the stated aims.
While the initiative has garnered support from many nations – some 155 countries have signed onto it – the BRI has also faced significant criticism and scrutiny from countless experts, analysts, and commentators.
What is the BRI?
The Belt and Road Initiative is a vast infrastructure and development project that is named after historical systems that existed in China. It encompasses both the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. The Silk Road Economic Belt focuses on land-based connectivity, linking China with Central Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, on the other hand, refers to maritime trade routes connecting China with Southeast Asia, Africa, and Europe.
China says that the BRI aims to promote economic integration, trade, and investment by constructing a network of roads, railways, ports, and other infrastructure projects in many countries. It seeks to bridge the infrastructure gap in developing countries, stimulate economic growth, and foster cultural exchanges. China has pledged substantial financial support, with estimates suggesting that the total investment could exceed $1 trillion.
While some people have praised the mega-project. Analysts have raised concerns, for one thing: what’s in it for China? The following are some major issues and questions:
Debt Trap Diplomacy: One of the most prominent and often-repeated criticisms of the BRI is the accusation of debt trap diplomacy. Critics argue that China’s loans to developing countries for infrastructure projects often come with high interest rates and stringent conditions, leading to unsustainable debt burdens. This has raised concerns about the sovereignty of recipient nations – which are typically poor – and their ability to repay these loans.
Lack of Transparency: Critics argue that the BRI lacks transparency, with deals often negotiated behind closed doors, leading to concerns about corruption and lack of accountability. Transparency is crucial to ensure that projects are economically viable, environmentally sustainable, and benefit the local communities. This concern may be of particular interest to Guyanese because of the countless questions about transparency under the rule of the PPP regime.
Environmental Concerns: The BRI’s massive infrastructure projects have raised environmental concerns. Critics argue that the initiative could exacerbate climate change, damage fragile ecosystems, and contribute to pollution. Experts say that it is essential for China to prioritise sustainable development practices and ensure that environmental impact assessments are conducted for each project.
Geopolitical Motives: Some critics view the BRI as a tool for expanding China’s geopolitical influence. They argue that the initiative allows China to gain strategic advantages by securing access to key resources, establishing military bases, and increasing its political influence in participating countries. This perception has led to concerns about China’s intentions and potential for power imbalances and global political instability.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative represents a huge undertaking that aims to reshape global connectivity and foster economic cooperation. While the initiative may have the potential to bring benefits to participating countries such as Guyana, the criticisms are of great concern. And many of those criticisms may have significant merit. Concerns must be addressed. As the initiative continues to evolve, it is essential for China and Guyana to listen to the concerns of critics, engage in open dialogue with detractors, and prioritise sustainable and inclusive development practices, while engaging with stakeholders in Guyana, and educating Guyanese about the massive operation .
