Mark Akpaninyie

Mark Akpaninyie is a researcher focusing on China's Belt and Road Initiative, Chinese investment and soft power abroad, and China-Africa relations. He previously worked at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) as a research assistant in the Simon Chair in Political Economy and Reconnecting Asia Project. He previously was the Research and Special Assistant for the late Dr. Zbigniew Brzezinski at CSIS and a researcher with the CSIS Freeman Chair in China Studies. Before joining CSIS, he lived in China for over three years, serving as a Fellow with Teach For China and then a lecturer at Baoshan University.

Mark is a member of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations, a member of the National Association for Black Engagement with Asia, a co-director of Young China Watchers DC, and a Young Leader with Pacific Forum. He graduated with a B.A. in Public Policy Studies from Duke University.