April 29, 2004
GUEST BEL-BLOGGER BRADLEY W.: THE POST-MODERN REINCARNATION OF THE SILK ROAD
Coming to an Asian or European city near you...in the next TWO HUNDRED YEARS (by my calculations), will be a modern reincarnation of the ancient Silk Road. Proposed more than 45 years ago by China, 23 Asian countries have signed the Asian Highway Project Agreement now. The total length of the proposed highway network is 140,000 kilometers, connecting capitals, major ports, commercial and industrial centers and tourist sites of the signatory nations. Click here to see the original map and routes of the ancient Silk Road. China claims they will have major portions completed by 2010. However, here in the United States, Mississippi is virtually incapable of completing major portions of highway for lack of funds. How do the numerous countries located on the Silk Road anticipate completing a major web of highways (no matter how rudimentary), let alone meeting their own basic precious needs? I'm sure right wing conservatives who support the extensive global economy will say products can then reach Silk Road regions via this highway web at a cheaper price, thereby boosting their corporate economic wealth, thereby degrading the regions culture, environment, and way of life.
This breeds geopolitical power struggles like no other. If we remember our history, the ancient Silk Road provided for the ideal delivery method of the Yuan dynasty take over of China in 1264 by the Mongols. Prior to this, the Han empire used the road to defend China against the Huns. It has been the home of the Afghan people, terrorists, wars and battles, and a nomadic refuge. The Silk Road encompasses no less than three deserts, the highest plateau in the world (Tibetan Plateau), highest mountains in the world (K2, Nanga Parbat, Mt. Everest, etc.), rare and endangered wildlife (Snow Leopard, Chiru - Tibetan Antelope, several species of trout and birds), and a population that is more dynamic, nomadic, and exploited than any other in the world.
China claims the Asian Highway Project will connect cities and ports, expand further cooperation with neighboring southeast and central Asian nations over border-crossing transpot, and accelerate regional integration and economic cooperation. They also believe it will lead to a boost in China's international tourism, especially with neighboring countries.
While impressive in scope, it lacks the consideration of regional lifestyle, environmental impact, cultural impact and devistation, terrain challenges, and geopolitics. By introducing China into a climate of cooperation such as this could lead to further suppression of other countries in the adjoining regions. If we recall the cultural revolution in Tibet, its purpose was to bring Tibet into the modern age, help them develop. While the leadership has changed, the same presence is in the air.
What do you think of a modern-day Silk Road?
Posted by at April 29, 2004 2:02 PM
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