By: Maarij Farooq
As dawn broke over Beijing, a palpable energy filled the air. The city, known for its rich history and culture was hosting the third Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum. Among the sea of international attendees, there was a keen observer, witnessing firsthand the grandeur and scale of an event that promised to shape global futures. I had the opportunity to witness this mammoth occasion where the world was about to witness the plan for the upcoming years of BRI and how economic activity will accelerate.
The Belt and Road Initiative, China’s ambitious project to boost trade and stimulate economic growth across Asia and beyond, had reached its third forum. Launched in 2013, the BRI sought to create networks of railways, roads, pipelines, and utility grids that would link China with Central Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. The previous forums were monumental, but this year, the stakes were even higher.
The venue buzzed with anticipation as diplomats, scholars, industry leaders, and representatives from over 100 countries converged. The forum was a testament to the BRI’s expansive reach and China’s commitment to fostering international cooperation. It was an honor to be part of such a significant event, an opportunity to witness history in the making.
Launched in 2013 by Chinese President Xi Jinping, the BRI is a global development strategy involving infrastructure development and investments in nearly 70 countries and international organizations. It consists of two main components: the land-based “Silk Road Economic Belt” and the oceangoing “21st-century Maritime Silk Road.” The initiative seeks to promote economic development along these routes, fostering greater international trade and stimulating economic growth.
The opening ceremony of the 3rd BRI Forum set the tone, with leaders emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the BRI. Keynote speeches echoed the theme of sustainable development, economic cooperation, and mutual benefit. Leaders from various countries delineated how the BRI could be a catalyst for global change.
At the 3rd Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum in 2023, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered an inspiring and optimistic speech that resonated with the audience and set a positive tone for the event. His words underscored the vision, achievements, and prospects of the BRI, painting a picture of global cooperation and shared prosperity.
President Xi began his address by emphasizing the common goals and shared interests that bind countries together. He highlighted how, in the face of global challenges such as climate change, economic disparities, and public health crises, the need for collaboration and understanding was greater than ever. He spoke about the BRI as a platform for addressing these challenges collectively.
His address was markedly positive in presenting the BRI’s alignment with global sustainability goals. He spoke about green development and the incorporation of environmentally friendly practices in BRI projects. He reiterated China’s commitment to an open and inclusive Belt and Road Initiative that seeks to bring benefits to all participating countries.
One of the standout aspects of President Xi’s speech was its optimistic outlook towards the future of the BRI. He expressed hope and confidence that the initiative would continue to evolve and adapt to the changing global landscape. He called for greater international collaboration, urging nations to join hands in creating a community with a shared future for mankind.
The forum was structured around thematic panels and discussions. Topics spanned infrastructure, finance, environmental sustainability, digital advancements, and cultural exchange. The sessions underscored the BRI’s multifaceted approach to fostering partnerships.
A prominent theme of the 3rd BRI Forum was sustainable development. Sessions delved into how the BRI could align with global sustainability goals, ensuring long-term benefits for all parties involved.
It emphasized the need for sustainable development within the BRI projects. There was a consensus on aligning BRI projects with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Discussions included the incorporation of green technologies, sustainable infrastructure, and responsible financing to mitigate environmental impacts.
The dialogues underscored the importance of making the BRI inclusive. This meant ensuring that the projects are not just beneficial for China but also bring prosperity and development to partner countries. Several agreements and MoUs were signed during the forum to bolster cooperation in various sectors including health, education, and technology.
The outcomes also include targets such as providing 100,000 training opportunities on green development for partner countries by 2030 and increasing the number of joint laboratories to 100.
Commercial agreements worth $97.2 billion were finalised during the BRF CEO Conference, anticipated to generate employment and foster growth within the Belt and Road Initiative countries.
The forum also decided to establish a BRF secretariat to facilitate institution-building and project implementation.
In the digital age, technology was a significant focus. Panels explored how the BRI could leverage technological innovations to enhance connectivity and foster economic growth.
The forum saw significant discussions on the Digital Silk Road, emphasizing on expanding digital infrastructure, e-commerce, smart cities, and tech-driven development. The Digital Silk Road aims to complement physical infrastructure with a digital network, fostering innovation and technological advancement.
Beyond economics and politics, the BRI also sought to bridge cultural gaps. Performances, exhibitions, and cultural exchanges showcased the diversity of nations involved in the initiative.
The forum saw a plethora of cultural performances and exhibitions that represented the diverse and vibrant cultures along the Belt and Road. Traditional dances, musical performances, and theatrical enactments took center stage, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in a world of cultural richness.
For instance, a Chinese dance troupe might have presented a traditional dragon dance, while musicians from Central Asia could showcase their region’s unique instruments and melodies.
These performances were not only a celebration of diversity but also a powerful reminder of the shared human experience.
Being present at the forum was an enlightening experience. The sheer scale and success of the event were evident in every detail, from the meticulous organization to the high-level discussions and significant agreements reached.
The 3rd BRI Forum concluded on a high note, with promises of continued collaboration and mutual growth. The initiative has already started showing tangible results, and the forum underscored the commitment to making the BRI a cornerstone of a new era of global cooperation.
In retrospect, the forum was not just a meeting of minds but a testament to the possibilities of a connected and collaborative future. For observers and participants alike, it offered a glimpse into a future shaped by cooperation, dialogue, and shared prosperity.
The writer is a Lawyer & is Deputy Editor-in-Chief at Pakistan Economic Net and Daily Ittehad Media Group