Strategic Prospects of the Maritime Silk Route (MSR) with respect to Energy Security and Military Purposes

Abstract

The 21st-century Maritime Silk Route refers to a broader geographical region stretching from South China, South Asia, Southeast Asia, South West Asia, Europe, and Africa. This qualitative study aims to explore the strategic prospects of the Maritime Silk Route concerning energy security and military drives. Since most of China's imports of energy supplies transit through the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, Beijing is interested to ensure unobstructed access in these regions. China is establishing a network of permanent naval bases from the Middle East to China. The MSR has emerged as cornerstone of China's foreign policy to capitalize the opportunity of Africa, Europe and Asia's transformation to create strategic space for China. It is effective in pursuing specific goals with respect to security of energy and China’s maritime superiority. Furthermore, it concludes that MSR is a win-win as it concentrates primarily on long-term benefits to all participating countries.