Beijing’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and the State Oceanic Administration (SOA) have released a comprehensive plan for maritime economic development and cooperation across the globe.

The policy paper, entitled the Vision for Maritime Cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, outlines the importance of harnessing the economic potential of the ocean, while also protecting the largest ecosystem on earth.   

Faced with the prospect of a waning economy, President Xi – in 2013 – orchestrated the Belt and Road Initiative, a two-pronged program to foster terrestrial and maritime trade and investment. Through this initiative, Beijing has advanced toward two deeply interconnected goals: to tap into the global market in order to keep its economic engine running, and to solidify its place in the international arena as a responsible global leader. China has attempted to strengthen the connectivity of regional infrastructure and foster global trade routes through railroad projects and port building, all while enhancing cultural exchanges and partnerships with other countries.

This article was originally published by The Cipher Brief on July 14, 2017. Read the full article here. The Cipher Brief, in conjunction with the Stimson Center, is publishing a Natural Security Series featuring articles on the convergence between environmental and national security issues.