The Southern Strategy: the People's Republic of China and Its Operations in Latin America

Date of Graduation

Spring 2002

Degree

Master of Science in Defense and Strategic Studies

Department

Defense and Strategic Studies

Committee Chair

Ulrike Schumacher

Abstract

The People's Republic of China strives for a multipolar world that is not dominated by the United States. An international arena no longer controlled by the United States could one day allow China greater freedom of action to fulfill its goals. In order to make the world more malleable to China's intentions, Beijing is forging relationships and increasing operations in areas of the world previously of little concern to China. In Latin America, China is fostering lucreative relationships clearly to its benefit. China has greatly increased its intelligence gathering capabilities by purchasing Russia's listening posts in Cuba. Chinese business interests advance Beijing's goals by securing oil purchases from Venezuela and control of the Panama Canal Zone. Small arms dealers deliver Chinese-made weapons to Colombia's Marxist guerrillas that have ravaged the country for more than thirty-five years and support the drug trade in its malignant operations. This thesis examines Beijing's strategy in Latin America by analyzing selected examples of Chinese involvement in the region.

Subject Categories

Defense and Security Studies

Copyright

© Johny Woodward

Citation-only

Dissertation/Thesis

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