CHINA'S MARITIME SILK ROAD: AN ANALYSIS OF INFLUENCE ON EGYPT, ALGERIA, AND MAURITANIA

How has China's influence in Egypt, Algeria, and Mauritania impacted the ambitious Maritime Silk Road along the MENA and West Africa regions? Chinese influence is present in each country. These three countries offer challenges to any influence activity regarding economic, military, diplomatic, and cultural domains. They also provide opportunities for China to grow economically in the region. Scholars suggest China takes advantage of instability in African countries, secures footholds throughout Africa, and establishes robust trade routes through the Mediterranean Sea. How does China approach the effects of stability and security challenges, specifically in Egypt, Algeria, and Mauritania? Chinese business, military, diplomatic, and cultural outreach practices might undermine Western interests. Using referent power, China appeals to countries seeking mutually attainable goals and bilateral agreements for Chinese economic gain. Chinese influence combines interactions in multiple domains (e.g., trade policy, diplomatic visits, military excises, and educational opportunities) to increase its economic output in all three countries, protect its trade routes and increase Chinese prestige and influence on the world stage. A study on the three different countries may provide insight into variations on influence activities and their effectiveness to influence each country individually.Lieutenant, United States NavyApproved for public release. Distribution is unlimited