The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, is a grand vision of global connectivity and cooperation. It aims to build a network of infrastructure, trade, and investment links across Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond. In the past ten years, the BRI has achieved remarkable progress and results in various fields and regions, such as:
- Infrastructure: The BRI has helped to construct or upgrade thousands of kilometers of roads, railways, ports, airports, pipelines, and power plants in dozens of countries. These projects have improved transportation, energy, and communication networks, and facilitated trade and economic growth .
- Trade: The BRI has promoted trade liberalization and facilitation through various mechanisms, such as free trade agreements, industrial parks, cross-border e-commerce platforms, and trade fairs. The BRI has also fostered new trade routes and corridors, such as the China-Europe Railway Express, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, and the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor .
- Investment: The BRI has attracted massive investment flows from China and other countries to support the development of BRI projects and countries. The BRI has also established several financial institutions and platforms, such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, the Silk Road Fund, and the Green Investment Principles, to provide funding and guidance for BRI cooperation .
- People-to-People Exchange: The BRI has enhanced cultural exchange and mutual learning among different civilizations and peoples. The BRI has supported various initiatives and programs in the fields of education, science, health, tourism, sports, media, and youth. The BRI has also fostered friendship and solidarity among BRI countries and regions through humanitarian assistance and disaster relief .
The BRI is not only a platform for economic cooperation, but also a bridge for peace and development. The BRI adheres to the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits. The BRI respects the diversity of development paths and models of different countries. The BRI seeks to build a community with a shared future for mankind .
As the world faces unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and rising protectionism, the BRI offers a new opportunity and impetus for global recovery and cooperation. The BRI is ready to work with all partners to build a more open, inclusive, balanced, and sustainable world .