A floral decoration for the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF) near Beichen Road in Beijing, capital of China, October 14, 2023. /Xinhua
Editor's note: Ruqiya Anwar, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a PhD scholar of Media and Communication Studies in Pakistan. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), also known as the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, is one of the most ambitious and transformative international undertakings in recent history. The Chinese government launched it in 2013 to promote connection and collaboration.
The BRI's main principles include shared benefits, inclusion, and long-term growth. It envisions a world in which nations work together to overcome global concerns and achieve a more prosperous and equitable future.
The BRI's success is built on its adaptability and flexibility. It recognizes that one size does not fit all and that partner countries' various needs and aspirations must be met. It involves numerous initiatives in a variety of sectors, including transportation, energy, telecommunications and trade. These projects span from the construction of ports and railways to the establishment of economic corridors and the promotion of people-to-people exchanges. In essence, the BRI provides a comprehensive strategy for growth that addresses both physical infrastructure and intangible bonds of cooperation.
The third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation has been taking place from October 17 to 18, demonstrating the BRI's continued significance and appeal. This discussion honors the initiative's tenth anniversary and is the "grandest event" in its history.
The attendance of more than 140 countries and over 30 international organizations at the meeting demonstrates the BRI's global recognition as a platform for collaboration and shared progress. The world is watching with bated breath as the international community gather at the forum. The BRI has not only aligned itself with over 30 countries' development strategies, but it has also embraced the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, becoming a catalyst for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on a global scale.
This alignment underscores the BRI's commitment to tackle some of today's most critical issues, such as poverty, inequality and climate change. It is a pledge to make the planet a more sustainable and equitable place for everybody.
The first press briefing in the Media Center of the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation is held at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, October 16, 2023. /Xinhua
In an era when economic nationalism and protectionism threaten to split nations, the BRI serves as a shining example of cooperation and harmony. It serves as a reminder that nations may work together to achieve common goals, generating a feeling of shared destiny and mutually beneficial cooperation.
The BRI's emphasis on infrastructure development is especially important since it fulfills a critical need for economic growth and human development. It is an acknowledgement that infrastructure investment is an investment in the future, creating opportunities, raising living standards and closing disparities across countries and regions.
The BRI is a response to developing countries' changing needs and aspirations. It has achieved universal support because it is based on the recognition that sustainable development is a collaborative effort. The BRI aligns with the global economic development trend, supporting a shared future in which the global community collaborates to tackle common challenges.
China, as the initiative's architect and driving force, is keen to use the third Belt and Road Forum to highlight the initiative's accomplishments and commitment to effective collaboration. This commitment extends beyond infrastructure to the sharing of ideas, technology and information. It is a commitment to establish bridges for understanding and foster a global society in which all nations can thrive.
The third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation is a significant event that exemplifies global collaboration and growth. It highlights the global convergence towards a shared future.
The BRI, with its primary focus on mutual advantages and inclusivity, is a ray of light in a world that might appear divided at times. The forum is a celebration of the BRI's accomplishments as well as a reaffirmation of the world's commitment to a brighter, more integrated, and prosperous future for all.
(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at opinions@cgtn.com. Follow @thouse_opinions on Twitter to discover the latest commentaries in the CGTN Opinion Section.)