This year marks the 10th anniversary of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a global development strategy aiming to build trade and infrastructure networks connecting Asia with Europe and beyond along the ancient Silk Road routes.
The BRI has been instrumental in promoting openness, inclusiveness, mutual benefits, and sustainability, fostering development and prosperity among participating nations. As the initiative reaches a decade, it has demonstrated vitality and resilience in enhancing global cooperation.
To understand the impact of the BRI from a youthful perspective, we spoke with overseas students at Tsinghua University in Beijing. Among them is Eakvixay Tran, a social science student from Laos, who shared insights into how the BRI has affected his homeland.
“The China-Laos Railway is a prime example of the role China has played in building the BRI,” Tran said. “It has effectively created a route for landlocked countries like Laos to engage in trade more efficiently with the rest of the world.”
The China-Laos Railway, launched in December 2021, spans over 1,000 kilometers, connecting Kunming in China’s Yunnan Province with Vientiane, the capital of Laos. The railway has significantly reduced travel time and transportation costs, bolstering economic ties and facilitating cultural exchanges between the two nations.
Tran believes that the BRI not only enhances infrastructure but also opens up new opportunities for education and collaboration. “Studying in China has allowed me to witness firsthand the benefits of these developments and how they can contribute to the growth of countries like mine,” he added.
As the BRI continues into its second decade, students like Tran represent a new generation that sees the potential for increased connectivity and shared prosperity across Asia and beyond. Their perspectives highlight the human impact of large-scale initiatives and the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
