The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), proposed by China, stands out as a model of cooperation based on equality and mutual benefit. Associate Professor Ali Oğuz Diriöz from the International Relations Department at TOBB University of Economics and Technology emphasized that this initiative revitalizes the ancient Silk Road, creating a Eurasia-centered trade and communication network. Turkey’s strategic location as a bridge between Asia and Europe has strengthened its collaboration under the BRI framework. Over the past decade, this initiative has evolved into an extensive network of cooperation spanning three continents, presenting a new model for multilateral cooperation to counter global trade challenges.
Diriöz noted that China’s approach to the BRI is rooted in a philosophy of peaceful cooperation, encapsulated in Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s vision of jointly developing the Belt and Road. Today, the BRI is one of the world’s largest international cooperation platforms, widely recognized through the signing of cooperation agreements with over 150 countries and 30 international organizations. As of 2023, Chinese companies have established more than 17,000 foreign enterprises under the initiative, with direct investments exceeding $330 billion and creating employment for over 530,000 people.
Turkey-China cooperation, particularly in railway and logistics projects, has garnered attention, with the transformative impact of the BRI on infrastructure, trade, and technology highlighted. China, a leader in renewable energy technologies, has made significant advancements in solar and wind energy production and sustainable urban design. Ensuring access to these technologies for countries under the BRI framework has the potential to improve local living standards. Diriöz emphasized that Turkey’s Middle Corridor plan complements the BRI, noting that this initiative offers significant opportunities not only in economic terms but also in enhancing regional and global connectivity for developing countries.
https://english.news.cn/20241225/7247f7c66f2d4736aee48d45565628db/c.html