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In a realm of geopolitical intrigue, China's military aspirations are taking on
a new maritime dimension. Analysts speculate that Beijing may be laying the
groundwork for a series of overseas naval bases in strategic locations across
Asia and Africa.
This move is seen as an effort to bolster China's maritime power globally,
challenge the United States' influence, and build resilience against Western
sanctions. AidData, a US-based research institute, identifies Hambantota in Sri
Lanka, Bata in Equatorial Guinea, and Gwadar in Pakistan as the most probable
locations for these future bases.
China's ambition to develop overseas naval facilities aligns with its "belt
and road initiative," with four of the potential bases being in Africa. While
the South China Sea and Taiwan strait are primary areas of interest, additional
bases abroad would safeguard shipping routes, particularly during times of
sanctions, and facilitate intelligence gathering.
However, experts contend that while these investments may not always result
in formal military bases, they offer valuable strategic advantages for the
Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) to seek resupply and repair
worldwide.
One such contentious site is the Ream naval base in Cambodia, where recent
satellite imagery suggests China may be discreetly
expanding its naval presence, sparking concerns among US defense analysts. As
the rivalry between China and the US intensifies, the potential establishment of
overseas naval bases becomes a focal point in the unfolding geopolitical drama. |
