The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative is unprecedented in terms of its financial engagement and its innovative network-based project design. However, the response to the initiative has been mixed.

While the idea of enhancing connectivity has drawn considerable interest, skepticism regarding China's potential hegemonic ambitions has prevailed, notably among regional powers.

“The Point with Liu Xin” held a panel discussion to talk about the major concerns regarding the Belt and Road Initiative.   

Jake Parker, Vice President of the US-China Business Council, said “I recognize the benefits of the Belt and Road Initiative. However, we should also be critical about some of the details. Take China’s high-speed railway as an example, China should be cautious when it launches high-speed rail projects in other countries because some of the advantages it has domestically would disappear when doing business in other countries.

“For example, domestically, when the railway line comes through a village, the government can relocate local residents to other areas and give them compensation for their homes. It is unclear whether such advantages will be available in other countries.”

Clare Pearson, Chair of the British Chamber of Commerce in China, said “unlike the way in which business is carried out in the short-term where instant outcomes are desired, it will take a longer time to see the achievements the Belt and Road Initiative can generate.” 

Under the Belt and Road Initiative, China is dealing with countries and regions with different religions and cultural backgrounds. In 2015, the China-Sri Lanka Colombo Port project was suspended because of the regime change in Sri Lanka.

However, the project was later resumed under the joint efforts of both sides. The Belt and Road Initiative aims to bring economic prosperity for all countries and organizations concerned. Mutual trust will be a critical factor to achieve this goal.