The Asia Group

China has launched a new cross-border freight rail service connecting western China with Turkmenistan as part of its Belt and Road Initiative, aiming to strengthen economic ties with Central Asia. Freight routes to Europe avoiding Russia and the Middle East have seen an 80% increase this year, driven by companies seeking to bypass geopolitical risks, including disruptions from the Strait of Hormuz closure and the Iran crisis.

China's oil stockpiles and renewable energy investments shielded it from the Strait of Hormuz closure's disruptions, unlike other Asian economies that imposed fuel rations. A report by The Asia Group highlights China's growing geopolitical leverage as it positions itself as a stable partner amid the Iran energy crisis, with increased clean tech exports and potential shifts in US allies' dependencies.

Mira Rapp-Hooper joined RFA's board in April 2026. She is a national security and Asia strategy expert currently partnering at The Asia Group and serving as a visiting fellow at Brookings Institute. She has held senior government positions including roles at the White House National Security Council.

Radio Free Asia announced the appointment of Olivia Enos and Mira Rapp-Hooper to its corporate board of directors. Both bring extensive expertise in human rights, national security, and Indo-Pacific regional affairs from their previous roles at major think tanks and government agencies.