Asia is building a new 'Silk Road'
The original silk road came out of military and politial purposes: a court official named Zhang Qian was sent by Emperor Wudi to try and find allies against the Xiongnu (the Huns). But the Xiongnu captured Zhang Qian and held him for 10 years. Zhang escaped and continued his mission, but failed in finding allies. However, in his travels the information that Zhang Qian brought with him also made them desire the goods of each other.
In 200 AD, this trade route connected the Roman Empire in the west with the Imperial court of China. This was the most important trade route between East and West until the sea routes to Asia opened up in the 15th century.
It's important to note that it wasn't just goods that were being transported across the Silk Road, but also culture, art, philosophies and beliefs.
With this new silk road, even if the primary purpose is to transport goods, I think that just like the old trade route, much more will be transported than just goods.
History repeats itself yet again.