President Xi Jinping Calls for Joint Building of Belt and Road Initiative to Boost Asia-Euro

May 26, 2023

In a speech delivered at the opening ceremony of the plenary session of the second Eurasian Economic Forum of the Eurasian Economic Union, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of joint efforts in building the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to enhance cooperation between Asia and Europe. The forum was conducted via video link, underscoring the ongoing challenges posed by the global pandemic.

President Xi acknowledged the significant changes taking place in the world, describing them as unparalleled in a century. He emphasized the irresistible trend toward multipolarity and economic globalization, which are widely recognized as the basis for genuine multilateralism and coordinated development across regions.

Xi highlighted the importance of Eurasia as the region with the largest population, the most countries, and a rich diversity of civilizations. The manner in which Asia and Europe proceed with cooperation holds profound implications not only for regional welfare but also for global development amidst a turbulent and rapidly changing world.

The Chinese President introduced his vision of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. He called on all nations to collaborate in constructing an open, inclusive, clean, and beautiful world that fosters lasting peace, universal security, and common prosperity. Xi emphasized the need to establish a community with a shared future for all humanity.

President Xi underscored that 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. He reiterated that the initiative's ultimate objective is to discover novel avenues for common development among nations, regardless of their proximity, and to create a path towards global well-being.

Acknowledging China's membership in the Eurasian family, Xi emphasized that China's development is inseparable from the Eurasian region, which also benefits from China's growth. He expressed a genuine desire for deepened synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and the Eurasian Economic Union. Xi called for unity and dedication among all nations, urging them to forge new prospects for Asia-Europe cooperation.

Highlighting China's commitment to international collaboration, President Xi announced that China will host the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in the latter half of this year. He expressed China's readiness to collaborate with participating countries of the Belt and Road Initiative and the member nations of the Eurasian Economic Union. The goal is to uphold peace, development, cooperation, and mutual benefit while seizing opportunities, overcoming challenges, and creating a brighter future. Xi emphasized the importance of jointly writing a new chapter in the progress of civilization within a multipolar world.

The second Eurasian Economic Forum of the Eurasian Economic Union, held both online and offline in Moscow, Russia, revolved around the theme of Eurasian integration in a multipolar world. The forum served as a platform for discussing strategies and fostering dialogue among participating nations, with the aim of strengthening economic ties and promoting regional integration.

As the Belt and Road Initiative continues to gain momentum, President Xi Jinping's call for joint building and enhanced cooperation signifies China's commitment to fostering connectivity, economic development, and prosperity across Asia and Europe. The forthcoming Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation presents an opportunity for nations to further deepen collaboration and explore avenues for shared success in a rapidly evolving global landscape.