Stretching Sea Lines of Communication

07 Aug Stretching Sea Lines of Communication

The so-called “String of Pearls” concept describes China’s growing geopolitical influence through its efforts to increase its access to strategic sea- and airports and hence new markets and resources.  The “String of Pearls” metaphor is most clearly evident when it is noted that as recently as 2006 the U.S. was the dominant trading partner for 127 of the countries concerned as opposed to just 70 for China at that time. By 2011, however, the two nations had changed places: China was dominant in 124 countries; the U.S. was dominant in 76.