During a panel discussion about concerns regarding the Belt and Road Initiative on CGTN's "The Point with Liu Xin,” Jake Parker, vice president of the US-China Business Council, shared his thoughts about how to ensure the benefits of the initiative trickle down to local residents, and to the countries and regions along the way.

His idea of Chinese companies not taking their own workers with them when going abroad sparked a heated discussion among the panelists. 

Clare Pearson, chair of the British Chamber of Commerce in China, said not every country or region along the way has qualified workers locally. By sending experienced Chinese workers abroad, the company will not only have a degree of central control, but can also complete difficult projects efficiently and to a high standard.

Pearson accepted that there are security risks when sending Chinese workers to other countries. However, there would be greater risks if no railways or roads were built, as there would be no economic opportunities, and so no job opportunities for the terrorist-plagued areas. After all, China is not using hardware, but software with its Belt and Road diplomacy. “Economic stability brings political stability,” Parker said.

Host Liu Xin noted that when beginning any new project, it is essential to consider all of the downsides as well as looking at the benefits to be gained. Addressing these concerns directly is the only way to ensure success. As far as China is concerned, there is nothing to be shy about in pursuing Chinese economic interests. 

But the key question is whether or not this will provide equal opportunities from which others can benefit. It is often said that the 19th century was one of European interests. The 20th century was when America rose to power. If the Belt and Road becomes a success, hopefully the 21st century will belong to everybody.