Former Ambassador to the UK emphasizes bridging gaps in understanding of BRI

As China marks a decade of the Belt and Road Initiative's achievements, former ambassador to the UK has emphasized the imperative of enhancing international communication to bridge gaps in understanding of the initiative.

Liu Xiaoming, former Chinese ambassador to the United Kingdom, delivered a keynote speech at the Silk Road International Communication Forum in Xi'an, Northwest China's Shaanxi province, on Oct 25.

Over the past 10 years, the BRI, anchored in the principles of "planning together, building together, and benefiting together," has made substantial progress toward achieving high-quality development, said Liu. This initiative has successfully forged connections with over 150 countries, playing a pivotal role in advancing infrastructure development and facilitating the movement of goods, capital, technology, and personnel among partner nations.

Liu underscored that the BRI extends beyond its economic cooperation dimension. It has also fostered people-to-people connectivity, transcending differences in culture, civilization, and social systems. This intercultural exchange and mutual understanding have laid the groundwork for international cooperation, promoting a sense of unity and shared values among diverse civilizations.

Furthermore, Liu emphasized China's significant contribution to global peace and development through the BRI.

China has committed to eight major steps to support high-quality BRI cooperation, including the development of multidimensional connectivity networks and the promotion of green development. This demonstrates China's strong sense of responsibility as a global participant and contributor to global governance, Liu said.

Liu stressed the importance of international communication in bridging understanding and garnering support for the BRI while countering misinformation and distortions. He called for enhanced exchanges and cooperation among media and think tanks in countries involved in the BRI.