Xi Jinping has declared that he wants China to become a "true maritime power." The country has been expanding its navy, the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) at breakneck speed. But China is also setting up a huge global network of ports, as part of its Belt and Road Initiative. China needs ports as the world's top export nation. It needs access to key trade routes to keep its economy running. But Chinese ports are about more than just trade. Chapters: 00:00 The Promise 04:37 The Network 08:24 The Vulnerability 11:08 The Rivalry 14:19 The Future DW Mapped out needs your help! What do you want to see more of? And what can we do better? Let us know by taking our quick survey (it takes less than 10 minutes!) 👉 This will help us to create more of the content YOU love. Thank you! Subscribe: For more news go to: Follow DW on social media: ►Facebook: ►Twitter: ►Instagram: ►Twitch: Für Videos in deutscher Sprache besuchen Sie: #China #BeltAndRoad #USA