BRI addresses global challenges, promotes prosperity, ambassador

BRI addresses global challenges, promotes prosperity, ambassador of China to Zimbabwe stated while stressing on the importance of collective future.

Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zhou Ding, emphasized that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) serves as a significant solution to global development challenges, promoting shared prosperity and a collective future for humanity.

Speaking to military officers at the Zimbabwe National Defense University on Thursday, Zhou highlighted that recent geopolitical crises have threatened global stability, widening the gap between developed and developing nations while fostering unilateralism and protectionism.

He pointed out that developing countries face significant hurdles in economic growth, infrastructure, and social development compared to their developed counterparts, making the implementation of sustainable development goals particularly challenging.

“The BRI provides a Chinese approach to overcoming these challenges by prioritizing infrastructure and connectivity. It integrates national policies, fosters coordinated progress, and promotes shared prosperity,” Zhou explained.

Unlike Western conquests and territorial expansions, the ancient Silk Road was built on principles of equitable trade, mutual respect, and goodwill, Zhou noted.

He further stated, “The BRI seeks to revive and modernize the spirit of the ancient Silk Road by promoting peace, cooperation, openness, inclusivity, knowledge exchange, and mutual benefits.”

Zhou underscored China’s belief that strengthening global connections, embracing openness, and enhancing international cooperation lead to benefits for all nations, as demonstrated by China’s own trade and investment growth.

Regarding China-Zimbabwe relations, Zhou emphasized that the two countries have upheld 45 years of ties based on mutual respect, shared interests, and non-interference in domestic affairs.

He reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe in realizing its Vision 2030 development plan.

“China and Zimbabwe maintain close coordination and share governance insights. During last year’s Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, both nations signed 17 agreements aligned with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, providing a clear roadmap for collaboration,” Zhou added.

Vision 2030 is Zimbabwe’s national agenda aimed at transforming the country into an upper-middle-income economy through industrialization and innovation-driven growth by the year 2030.