China's 'maritime silk road' linking Southeast Asia faces a rocky birth
Beijing's vague vision of better connections between ports and improved maritime co-operation faces scepticism from Asean partners
Armed with a plethora of trade deals and investment funds, Beijing's vision of reviving the "maritime silk road" with Southeast Asia has caught the imagination of policymakers and observers in the region.
Experts say China's neighbours welcomes closer economic ties. But doubts about Beijing's intentions - and whether strings may be attached to the project - appear to be making some reluctant to embrace the vision of political and security co-operation with China over maritime issues.
While no concrete details are available on how the modern "maritime silk road" will be forged, many expect a web of trade links and better connectivity between ports and maritime co-operation.
Analysts say the initiatives could further enhance economic ties between China and Southeast Asia.
The revival of the maritime silk road was proposed by President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang during their visits to the region last week. It is seen as part of China's charm offensive to sidestep lingering tensions over the South China Sea and to counter the United States' rebalancing of economic and security commitments towards Asia, know as the "pivot".
Recalling the historic sea trade route that linked China with the world in the 15th century, the vision of a new maritime silk road signals a systematic approach to expanding China's economic, political and security clout in the region.
