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China Unscripted

#226 China is Preparing for War in the Americas | Joseph Humire

Nov 6, 2023
Joseph Humire, the Executive director of the DC-based think tank Center for a Secure Free Society, talks about China's plan for Latin America, their involvement in the drug trade and their economic influence in the region. The podcast also explores how China collaborates with Russia and Iran, uses migration as a tool for instability, and discusses China's increasing presence in South America, particularly in Colombia.
01:08:24

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • China is strategically preparing for war in the Americas by creating alliances, building infrastructure, and exploiting drug trade networks.
  • China's port infrastructure projects in Latin America are a cause for concern, as they provide strategic locations for Chinese naval assets and could disrupt regional security.

Deep dives

China's Strategy in Latin America

China has strategically gained economic influence in Latin America as part of its global ambitions. It sees Latin America as a way to counterbalance the United States and expand its sphere of influence in the Global South. China's encroachment into Latin America began in the early 21st century, with an initial focus on economic investments and trade. They took advantage of US neglect and the financial crisis of 2008 to gain a foothold in the Inter-American Development Bank. China's strategy involves using the bank to co-finance major projects in the region, coupled with the Export-Import Bank of China. Venezuela has been a key target for China, receiving significant credits and loans, effectively buying the country. China's influence in Latin America also extends to military support, satellite tracking stations, and cooperation with organized crime networks, such as cartels involved in drug trafficking. Overall, China's economic and military presence in Latin America poses a threat to US interests and regional stability.

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