A symphony for all to play

Increasing attention is being paid to the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative both at home and overseas, and there is a growing consensus that it should be a symphony played by all participants rather than a solo played by China alone. Since it was first proposed three years ago, China has consistently made clear its open approach toward the Belt and Road Initiative, insisting it is open to all countries.

Given that the initiative is aimed at promoting political trust, economic cooperation and cultural exchanges along the two routes, it is meant to achieve shared prosperity and development.

Practices over the three years also show that China does not seek a dominant say in the initiative, but instead embraces extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits.

The Belt and Road Initiative has brought those countries involved a tangible “sense of gain”. For example, the infrastructure connectivity projects launched under the initiative that connect Asia, Europe and Africa have brought transportation guarantees for the flow of goods and people, and the establishment of such financial platforms as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and Silk Road Fund has promoted the flow of funds.

The 56 economic and trade cooperation areas Chinese enterprises have set up in more than 20 countries along the routes of the Belt and Road have created numerous jobs for the host countries, and increased the cultural exchange projects that have enhanced mutual understanding and friendship among different peoples.

In the context of the feeble world economic recovery and rising protectionism, the all-inclusive Belt and Road Initiative is expected to boost confidence in the global economy and serve as a driver of economic growth and development worldwide. It is open, innovative, vigorous, interconnected and inclusive and constitutes an inseparable part of global efforts to forge an international community of shared destiny.