AIIB Partners with ADB and Others in Initial Projects
The AIIB plans to implement projects this year in Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan. Projects will be largely centered around transportation infrastructure. These projects demonstrate global cooperation, as the AIIB has partnered with other Western-Led Development Banks to finance these projects. Fears that the One Belt One Road initiative, which includes the AIIB, is a political effort to expand China's sphere of influence have been abated by this cooperation.
AIIB Steps in as the World Bank "Struggles"
The World Bank's role as the primary development financier is being increasingly taken over by China's bilateral lending and regional development banks, including the AIIB.
Japan's Commitment to Quality Development is Unmatched by China
Japan is making efforts to develop quality infrastructure, whereas China is promoting its reputation through large and numerous loans. Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, has stated that quality infrastructure development will be a primary topic at the upcoming G-7 meeting.
China, Israel vow further parliamentary exchanges
Israel and China’s parliamentary bodies have both expressed mutual interest in opening a dialogue about further cooperation between the two nations. Bilateral trade between the countries has increased by almost 5 percent. The nations have agreed to commence free trade talks soon.
Energy Evolution
In recent years developing countries in Asia have tried to balance cost of electricity with the cost of conservation. As a result, clean energy growth in the region has shown to be more competitive than elsewhere despite a lack of prioritization of environmental concerns within regional agendas. In response to growing regional interest in clean energy development, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank has stated that clean energy investment has become a top priority.