Editor's note: Muhammad Asif Noor, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is the founder of the forum "Friends of Belt and Road Initiative" and an advisor to the Pakistan Research Center under Hebei Normal University, China. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's address at the third Belt and Road International Cooperation Forum on October 18 carried immense significance as it marked the decade-long journey of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The speech highlighted the core principles of the BRI and laid out a vision for its future, with a keen focus on modernization, technological innovation, connectivity, and an open global economy.

The BRI's inception a decade ago was rooted in the profound historical inspiration of the Silk Road. It wasn't merely a concept for infrastructure development; it was a vision for global connectivity. Over the past ten years, that vision has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from an idea to a tangible global network that transcends geographical boundaries. The BRI's influence now extends from Asia and Europe to Africa and Latin America, involving over 150 countries and 30 international organizations. The transformation has remained remarkable across the globe.

This transformation signifies a significant shift from physical infrastructure to a more comprehensive notion of soft connectivity. The BRI is no longer solely about building roads and ports; it encompasses a set of guiding principles: consultation, cooperation, shared benefits, openness, green development, and sustainability. These principles have become the bedrock of high-quality BRI cooperation, bridging differences in culture, civilization, and social systems.

The global COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to nations across the world. In this dire situation, the BRI proved to be a beacon of hope and cooperation. China, as a leading proponent of the initiative, played a pivotal role in supporting affected nations. It provided billions of masks and vaccine doses to countries worldwide, underscoring the BRI's humanitarian spirit and its ability to serve as a lifeline during times of crisis.

The unique response to the pandemic demonstrated that the BRI isn't merely a framework for economic and infrastructure development; it embodies the spirit of global solidarity. China's collaboration with over 20 countries in vaccine production exemplified international cooperation at its best, showing that the initiative is driven not only by economic interests but by the principles of mutual support and collective well-being.

In charting the BRI's path forward, President Xi announced eight steps that reflect a forward-looking vision for the initiative. Each of them underscores the BRI's commitment to building a better, more interconnected world.

President Xi unveiled plans to further develop the BRI's three-dimensional connectivity network. The initiative's core focus is on the integration of transportation over the land, air, ocean and the Internet. This holistic approach aims to enhance the flow of goods, capital, technology, and people among participating countries, reinvigorating the spirit of the Silk Road for the modern era.

China's commitment to establishing a pilot zone for "Silk Road e-commerce" cooperation and signing more free trade agreements underscores its dedication to an open and interconnected global economy. The BRI's future involves a combination of landmark projects and smaller, but equally significant, livelihood projects.

Environmental sustainability is a cornerstone of the BRI's future. The commitment to deepening cooperation in green infrastructure, energy, and transportation reflects the initiative's role in fostering a more sustainable world. In a world increasingly driven by technology, the BRI is committed to being at the forefront. The plan includes the establishment of joint laboratories and the proposal for global AI governance, indicating the initiative's focus on advancing technological innovation.

Cultural diplomacy and people-to-people exchanges are central to the BRI's mission. Initiatives such as the Silk Road Tourism City Alliance and the Chinese government scholarship Silk Road Program promote understanding, tolerance and mutual respect among participating nations. A clean and transparent BRI is essential. China's emphasis on corporate clean compliance and sustainable practices highlights its dedication to good governance and ethical development.

The BRI's principles align with global progress, encouraging win-win cooperation and embracing values of peace, cooperation, and inclusiveness. It aims to create a better world, not just for China but for the entire global community.  As the BRI enters its second decade, it remains a potent force for positive change in our rapidly changing world, fostering cooperation, connectivity and a shared vision of a more interconnected and prosperous world. President Xi's speech reinforces the BRI's central role in shaping this future and reaffirms China's commitment to its principles and goals.

The Belt and Road Initiative, born of ancient inspiration, has grown into a symbol of modern collaboration, technological innovation, and global interconnectedness. It remains a testament to the capacity of nations to come together, transcending differences for the betterment of all. This initiative exemplifies the spirit of our times, promoting a more open, inclusive, and prosperous world, not just for today but for generations to come. President Xi's vision for the BRI offers us hope and direction as we navigate a rapidly changing world.

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