On May 15, the 2025 “Belt and Road” Forum on Cultural Exchange and Economic Development was held in Beijing. The event was hosted by the Expert Committee of the China Business History Society’s “Belt and Road” initiative, Guosheng Think Tank, relevant research centers of the Central University of Finance and Economics, and the Silk Road World Cultural Heritage Protection and Development Center in Beijing. The forum systematically evaluated the achievements made over the past 11 years under the “Belt and Road” Initiative, analyzed the new circumstances it faces, and set forth future goals. Strategic recommendations were developed for the next “golden decade” of the initiative, with discussions focusing on how to further strengthen mutual cultural and economic cooperation.
The forum highlighted progress in three key areas: “hard connectivity” through infrastructure, “soft connectivity” through standard and regulatory alignment, and “people-to-people bonds” to enhance mutual understanding. It was noted that China’s recent investments in railways, ports, and energy projects have contributed to economic development across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Additionally, cultural exchanges, educational cooperation, and talent development programs were emphasized as means of deepening people-to-people ties. The 2024 “Belt and Road” Cultural and Economic Report, released at the forum, stressed that digitalization, green transformation, and cultural interaction will play a crucial role in future development strategies.