We begin the broadcast with the end of the Second Belt and Road Forum. Nearly 300 outcomes were reached in boosting connectivity between countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative. CGTN's Zou Yun has the story.

A road to peace, prosperity, opening up as well as innovation. Following this second annual Belt and Road Forum in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke about the achievements made during the 3 days of in-depth discussion and exchanges of opinions. More than 5 years since it was first proposed, the Belt and Road Initiative has grown into one of the most promising platforms for international cooperation, with solid progress and a shifting focus on high-quality development. And this time, 40 heads of states and international organizations are making joint efforts to bring the initiative to a higher level of quality and sustainability.

XI JINPING CHINESE PRESIDENT "We enriched the concept of belt and road cooperation and jointly reaffirmed our commitment to its high-quality development. Guided by principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, the parties have conducted consultations as equals, jointly shouldered responsibilities and enjoy benefits together."

Two years ago, during the first Belt and Road Forum, positive consensus and fruitful outcomes were achieved. Officials say the results were even better this time, with higher quality outcomes. A full range of 283 outcomes were reached, including both governmental cooperation agreements and initiatives, as well as concrete cooperation projects involving participation of the business sector. Moreover, a massive number of business contracts were signed at the forum.

XI JINPING CHINESE PRESIDENT "A great many business representatives participated in the CEO conference, they signed project cooperation agreements worth over 64 billion US dollars. All of this shows that Belt and Road cooperation is in sync with the times, widely supported, people-centered and beneficial to all."

Meanwhile, a joint communiqué was also released, by which countries reaffirmed that strengthening multilateralism remains essential in addressing global challenges.

ZOU YUN BEIJING "In the face of rising protectionism and unilateralism, China has presented a new model of globalization which is not only a continuation of spirit from the ancient Silk Road, but also a chapter bringing the new impetus to world growth. ZY, CGTN, BJ."