US officials have repeatedly accused China of ‘debt-trap diplomacy’, swamping poor countries with so much debt that they have to surrender control of strategic assets. But there are almost no real-world examples of this phenomenon, I show in my latest essay.
China
Is China’s Belt and Road Initiative Working?
For my latest story, I interviewed experts at the ADB, OECD and elsewhere on the progress and prospects of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
China’s Silent Foray into Nepal
My latest looks at China’s growing influence in Nepal, which has traditionally been dominated by India but is increasingly within Beijing’s sphere of influence.
Assessing the Xi-Modi Summit in Chennai
Read my latest article, looking at the recent informal summit in Chennai between the leaders of China and India.
Interview with Ehud Olmert
I recently had the opportunity to interview former Israeli PM Ehud Olmert, who spoke on a variety of topics, including domestic Israeli politics, Iran, Syria and Israel’s relationship with Pakistan. Read the story here.
The Taliban Go Global
I have another piece out today, on the transformation of the Afghan Taliban from an isolated, parochial group into an increasingly global movement.
The Risk of a Saudi-Iran Proxy War in Afghanistan
My latest assesses the risk of a Saudi-Iran proxy war in Afghanistan.
China and the Afghan Taliban
My latest looks at the surprisingly close relationship between China and the Afghan Taliban.
China’s Afghanistan Threat
Read my latest essay, looking at the security threats facing China from Afghanistan.
Slowly but Surely, China is Moving into Afghanistan
My new story, available here, looks at China’s growing role in Afghanistan and the prospects of expanding its Belt & Road Initiative there.
Rupert Stone 