Third BRI forum: Another 'power show' for global and economic equality
Business
Putin's presence in the forum is a message to the US and allies for striking balance of power
By Faisal Ali Ghumman
China, the second biggest economy in the world, has formally inaugurated the third Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) forum in Beijing today – an activity that is being seen as another “show of power” by the two global powers on equal footing.
The opening addresses by China president Xi Jinping and Russia president Vladimir Putin at the forum’s inaugural ceremony are a testimony to the fact that the two world powers are “clearly” signaling the United States (US) and allies for level-playing field on all fronts.
The BRI, launched 10 years ago, aims to build global infrastructure and energy networks connecting Asia with Africa and Europe through overland and maritime routes.
Mr Xi, in his address to the representatives of 130 nations, unequivocally conveyed his message that the Belt and Road initiative had now become institutional connectivity rather physical one.
He went on say that the BRI proved to be the life-saving activity in 70 countries in the era of Covid-19. In his clear message to the west, the Chinese president confidently said China with the help of the BRI had become important trade partner in 140 countries and regions and have plans to open its more corridors for the purpose.
"We stand against unilateral sanctions, economic coercion, decoupling and supply chain disruption," Mr Xi told more than 1,000 delegates gathered in an ornate conference room in the Great Hall of the People west of Tiananmen Square.
As part of further expansion in the BRI, the Chinese president also announced eight-point agenda in what appeared to be a clear signal to the US and allies to either welcome or face it.
He was of the view that collective efforts were needed to steer the world out of growing conflicts and multiple crisis.
Russia’s Putin, in his address, lauded China for making the BRI a successful venture and backed Mr Xi for his vision for more regional and global economic connectivity.
He invited global investment in the Northern Sea route which he said could deepen trade between east and west.
Where China seems to grow its influence in the world with prime focus on opening more trade corridors, the conflicts like China and Taiwan, border tension between India and China, Russia’s war in Ukraine, deteriorating US-China relations, mounting Middle East crisis especially ongoing Israel-Palestine war besides post-Covid economic scenario pose certain blows to the BRI.
If China and allies want the world to grow peacefully and economically, the US and allies should reciprocate in the best interests of eight billion souls on the planet.
And if the US and allies have concerns over Taiwan and Ukraine conflicts, China and Russia need to revisit their approach while sitting at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to settle burning issues amicably.
More conflicts simply mean more bloodshed, infrastructural and climate disasters, hunger and inflation, and insecurity etc.
