The contraction in international banking activity that began in late 2011 came to an end in the first quarter of 2014, the Bank for International Settlements has reported.The cross-border claims of BIS reporting banks rose by US$580 billion in the March quarter, according to the latest BIS international banking statistics.The increase was spread across countries and sectors. However, the largest increase was in claims against borrowers in China.Total cross-border lending to emerging markets, including China, has grown by ten per cent over the 12 months to March.Cross-border lending to non-bank financial institutions, non-financial corporations and governments in the United States was "especially strong" during the quarter, rising by US$73 billion.There were substantial declines in claims on Russia and Ukraine, as well as on parts of emerging Europe, including Poland and Turkey.Interbank loans made up 46 per cent of all outstanding cross-border claims, while loans to non-banks made up 24 per cent, holdings of debt securities and other claims on banks made up 17 per cent and holdings of debt securities and other claims on non-banks made up 13 per cent.