China’s MSRI in Southeast Asia: Dynamism Amidst the Delays, Doubts, and Dilemmas

Abstract

This chapter supplies background on China’s Maritime Silk Road Initiative (MSRI). It also surveys Southeast Asia (SEA)’s relations with China from the 1950s through the present. Furthermore, it delves into the MSRI in SEA, looking at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ “collective” stance towards China’s initiative and trade, COFDI, and contracting patterns associated with the MSRI in SEA. Beyond this, it summarizes the book’s chapters. Lastly, it details the book’s findings and discusses areas for future research. The book shows the MSRI in SEA on a project and macroeconomic level has yet to produce earthshattering results, though there have been positive outcomes. It also demonstrates domestic politics plays a critical role in shaping the extent to which SEA countries embrace and implement the MSRI.