China will host the Belt and Road International Cooperation Summit Forum in Beijing in May of this year. The upcoming forum seeks to expand cooperation and share benefits among Belt and Road countries while exploring solutions to the current economic problems facing the world. It will help instil new energy for the development of new linkages, thus ensuring the Belt and Road will better benefit all countries involved.

The convening of the forum in May can be described as a matter of course. It not only bears the high expectations of the international community, but will in turn have far-reaching effects on construction of the Belt and Road.

First, the forum will summarize Belt and Road construction results, as well as plans for the future. Facing the trend of de-globalization, the forum will reflect China’s strong sense of the times, leading globalization in the direction of inclusive development while seeking global governance through consultation in an effort to meet the interests of all.

Second, the forum will promote multilateral consultations and accelerate the construction of more sound cooperative mechanisms. “If you want to go fast, walk alone; and if you want to go far, walk together.” In order to carry forward the Belt and Road Initiative, all countries involved need to build a mutually beneficial cooperation network, as well as new cooperation models and a multi-dimensional cooperation platform to facilitate the projects in key areas. The forum will fully reflect the general needs of the international community and address relevant issues in an open, transparent and inclusive manner in accordance with international law.

Third, the forum will fully integrate the United Nations’ peace and development goals, with special consideration given to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Change Agreement. The Chinese-sponsored forum will also highlight the common will of mankind, the building of a green, healthy, intelligent, peaceful silk road and a community of human destiny.

The Belt and Road Initiative originates from China, but belongs to the world. The coming Belt and Road International Cooperation Summit Forum promises favourable outcomes across the world!

(This article is originally published in People’s Daily Overseas Version and is abridged here for use)