The New Silk Road (2019)
The New Silk Road is a compelling documentary that delves into China’s ambitious infrastructure projects and their impact on global trade and geopolitics. Directed by Elvire Berahya Lazarus, the film sheds light on China’s efforts to revive the ancient Silk Road network through massive investments in transportation and connectivity.
The documentary takes viewers on a journey along the New Silk Road, a modern-day trade route that spans continents, connecting China to Europe and Africa. Here are the key highlights:
- High-Speed Rail: China has constructed high-speed train rails that allow goods to be transported from China to France in a mere 14 days. This remarkable feat has revolutionized cross-continental logistics and trade efficiency.
- Military Ports and Modern Railways: China has strategically built a military port and ultra-modern railway infrastructure in countries like Ethiopia. These projects serve as conduits for Chinese expansionism, fostering economic ties and influence since 2013.
- The Alhambra: The documentary also explores historical echoes along the Silk Road. For instance, it visits the Alhambra in Granada, Spain—a masterpiece of Moorish architecture that once thrived as part of the ancient trade network.
- Challenges and Controversies: While the New Silk Road promises economic growth and connectivity, it also raises concerns. Critics question the environmental impact, debt dependency, and geopolitical implications of China’s ambitious endeavors.
- Human Stories: Throughout the film, everyday citizens caught in the crossroads of progress share their experiences. They grapple with the promise of revitalization and the potential pitfalls of these mega-projects.
In summary, The New Silk Road provides a glimpse into China’s grand vision of global connectivity, revealing both its achievements and the complexities that lie beneath the surface. Whether you’re fascinated by history, trade, or geopolitics, this documentary offers a thought-provoking exploration of our interconnected world
