As British Prime Minister Theresa May continues her official visit to China, academics and high-profile politicians are debating the implications of the Belt and Road Initiative at the University of Cambridge.

The questions posed at this week’s forum at Cambridge get to the heart of the discussion: What’s the essence of the Belt and Road Initiative? And what are the goals? 

Britain’s support of the initiative is also in the limelight as May visits Beijing to discuss post-Brexit trade ties with China.

The Belt and Road Forum is held at Jesus College, University of Cambridge from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2, 2018. /CGTN Photo

“There is no denying that there is very strong history between the two countries, so we have to build on that,” said David De Cremer, co-founder of OBOR International Center, University of Cambridge.

China is seeking a new level, a “Golden Era” of trade partnership with Britain. De Cremer pointed out that China and the UK have a mutual history going back many years. “I would say from a theoretical point of view, yes, the collaboration should be there because there's a natural connection, as you say. I think there are problems right now that probably prevent clear-cut agreements already at this point of time.” 

During a Thursday meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, May said the Belt and Road Initiative has far-reaching global influence. She expressed her hope that Britain and China can cooperate to boost global and regional economic growth. Her comments were welcomed by the participants at the Cambridge forum. 

The forum was organized by the Cambridge Oriental Culture Association, Jesus College Intellectual Forum and Cambridge One Belt One Road Center. /CGTN Photo

“I think with Britain’s history as a global trading nation and China’s aspirations to also be a global trading nation, it absolutely makes sense to work together,” Julian Huppert, former Member of Parliament for Cambridge parliamentary constituency, said.

“The test in international affairs in my view isn’t what's in one country's interests or what's in another country’s interests. I think you could often find things which are in both countries’ interests. And I think Britain working together with the Belt and Road in a collaborative, respectful way will be a benefit to China, to the UK and the globe,” he added.