The New Silk Road, Part 1: From China to Pakistan | DW Documentary

The script introduces the New Silk Road as a monumental commitment and symbol of power and strength by China. It discusses the massive influx of hundreds of billions of euros into infrastructure projects across 65 countries, including railways, ports, streets, bridges, and tunnels. This unprecedented project is seen as a bold vision that inspires many but also poses challenges and opportunities for different regions. The script also touches on the historical significance of the Silk Road and its revival as part of China's international ambitions.

This paragraph delves into the transformation of cities like Thâm Quyến into a high-tech metropolis and the cultural implications of the New Silk Road. It highlights the rapid urbanization and the influx of Chinese tourists in places like Xi-ha-núc-vin, Cambodia, which has led to mixed feelings among locals. The script also addresses the political and economic influence of Chinese investments, including allegations of corruption and lack of transparency in bidding processes.

The paragraph discusses the negative consequences of the tourism boom in Xi-ha-núc-vin, including increased crime, violence, and a sense of insecurity. It describes the cultural and social tensions arising from the presence of Chinese tourists and investors, leading to conflicts and a perceived invasion of local culture and lifestyle. The script also mentions the impact of Chinese gambling operations and the lack of benefits for local people.

This section explores the cultural clashes and the impact on heritage sites, particularly in Kashgar, a historic center on the ancient Silk Road. It describes the strict surveillance and control exerted by Chinese authorities, leading to the destruction of traditional Uighur neighborhoods and the suppression of religious practices. The script also touches on the broader implications of these actions for China's Belt and Road Initiative.

The paragraph focuses on the gem trade in Myanmar, highlighting the dominance of Chinese buyers in the market and the exploitation of natural resources. It describes the hardships faced by local miners and the dissatisfaction with the trade practices that favor Chinese interests. The script also discusses the cultural significance of jade in China and the impact of the gem trade on local economies and communities.

This section discusses the human cost of development projects, such as the construction of a dam near the Ayeyarwady River, which has led to the displacement of communities like Daw Ja's village. It describes the opposition to such projects and the emotional turmoil experienced by those forced to leave their homes, as well as the political and economic pressures exerted by China on countries like Myanmar and Sri Lanka.

The script examines the case of Sri Lanka, where large-scale infrastructure projects funded by China have led to a debt crisis and the controversial 99-year lease of the Hambantota port to China. It describes the lack of transparency, the failure to deliver promised benefits to local communities, and the suspicions of military intentions behind these projects.

This paragraph tells the story of a ghost airport in Sri Lanka, built with Chinese loans but with little to no traffic, symbolizing the larger issue of unsustainable debt and unutilized infrastructure. It discusses the impact on local economies and the government's struggle to find foreign investors to take over these white elephants.

The script explores the construction of the Karakoram Highway, a part of the New Silk Road, which faces numerous challenges due to its high altitude and treacherous terrain. It describes the harsh working conditions, the accidents, and the geopolitical implications of this project on the border between Pakistan and China.

This section questions the viability and purpose of the New Silk Road, as evidenced by the sparse traffic on the Karakoram Highway. It discusses the environmental and human costs, the geopolitical strategies, and the potential for this project to become a modern-day conquest, as well as the cultural impact on local communities.

The final paragraph reveals the scale of China's ambition to build a trans-Pakistan corridor as part of the New Silk Road, with massive construction projects including bridges and tunnels. It reflects on the pride of the workers and the long-term vision of connecting China to the Arabian Sea, drawing parallels to ancient empires that built roads to solidify their power.