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Graphic shows debt risk of countries involved in the “Belt and Road Initiative” and forecast of public debt/GDP of eight most vulnerable nations.
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فخ الديون على طريق الحرير الصينية الجديدة

September 4, 2018 - China’s “Belt and Road Initiative” (BRI) is reportedly burying some countries under massive debt. According to the Center for Global Development, of the 68 countries involved in the BRI, eight are vulnerable to debt distress, owing almost $18 billion to Beijing.

The release of the report coincided with the announcement by Chinese President Xi Jinping of a $60 billion package in investment, aid and loans in Africa over the next three years.

President Xi denied that China had been engaging in “debt diplomacy” by loading countries up with debt so they became politically beholden to Beijing.

“China does not attach any political strings to its investment in Africa under the Belt and Road initiative, nor does it interfere in African countries internal affairs or impose its demands on others”, Xi said.

The BRI – also known as the “New Silk Road” – was announced by Xi in 2013. It envisions construction of railways, roads and ports across the globe, with Beijing providing billions of dollars in loans to many countries.

Sources
PUBLISHED:05/09/2018; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Getty Images
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