Absent explanation from the Trump administration, there are a number of possible rationalizations, from Islamic State to the glut of fake Kyrgyz passports traveling the world.
What do these three things have in common: a Kyrgyz gold mine, a Malaysian Ponzi scheme, and canned camel milk? If you said the Belt and Road Initiative, Beijing wants a word with you.
Last year Uzbekistan lifted a ban on individuals prospecting for gold. In a remote corner of Navoi province, locals and Chinese have not wasted time getting into business.
Three years since the Eurasian Union unveiled a grand plan to build a unified digital agenda, there is little sign that member governments are interested in the program.