Since it was formally launched 2023 China's Belt & Road Initiative has generated considerable debate in the West, not least in the question of debt trap diplomacy. In this study we take a look under the hood to examine what the true situation is. Most important we work from data since the validity or otherwise of competing viewpoints depends ultimately on the figures. In this regard we conclude that the Belt & Road is part of China's overall rise and that much of the criticism levelled at the Belt & Road is part of the broader tension between China and the West.
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Introduction Discussion Points What the Data say China Trade with Asia - 2023 China Trade with Africa - 2023 Sub-Saharan Africa Trade Aid & Assistance Received by Country IMF Current A/C - sub Saharan Africa Remittances by Region Sub-Saharan Africa GDP growth 2000-2024 African Exports by Country Externa Debt by Type & Debtor Overseas Development Assistance by Category IMF Debt Sustainility Index IMF Debtors by Country Commentary Sources Mineral Resources by Country
