China's Xi: we were first to launch Belt and Road cooperation

China's Xi: we were first to launch Belt and Road cooperation

China's President Xi Jinping has asserted that China was the first to launch cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), highlighting the significance of the initiative in global trade and infrastructure development. This statement comes amidst a flurry of activity in the BRI's first half of 2025, which saw substantial investments, particularly in Central Asia.

According to the China-Global South Project, investments under the BRI surged to US$124 billion in the first half of 2025, with a significant portion allocated to Central Asian countries, especially Kazakhstan. This region has been a focus for Chinese investments, particularly in mining projects for metals like aluminium and copper [3].

Xi Jinping's statement underscores China's strategic approach to the BRI, which has traditionally centered on the construction of airports, seaports, roads, and power plants. These projects are designed to serve local economies while also facilitating global trade and enhancing China's geopolitical influence [3].

The BRI's success is evident in its ability to attract investments from various countries, with 150 nations participating in the initiative. However, the initiative has faced challenges, including funding issues and political tensions. For instance, Pakistan has been forced to seek alternative funding sources after China refused to finance the Mainline-I (ML-1) railways project, a key component of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) [1].

Despite these challenges, the BRI continues to be a significant driver of global infrastructure development. As China seeks to expand its influence through the initiative, it is crucial for other countries to engage constructively and ensure that the BRI benefits all participants equitably.

References:
[1] https://www.firstpost.com/world/pakistan-back-to-cup-in-hand-stance-seeks-adb-funds-as-china-pulls-out-of-7-bn-rail-project-ws-e-13929621.html
[2] https://www.etnownews.com/economy/pm-modi-xi-jinping-meeting-india-china-border-sco-summit-2025-tianjin-article-152567173
[3] https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3323354/china-steps-belt-and-road-initiative-funding-focus-central-asia?utm_source=rss_feed