Chinese Consul-General in Chicago Zhao Jian (R) speaks during a press reception in Chicago, the United States, on April 25, 2019. Chinese Consul-General in Chicago Zhao Jian said the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) provides development opportunities and joint benefits for all participants. Zhao made the remarks at a Chinese language press reception on Thursday held by the Chinese Consulate General in Chicago. (Xinhua/Wang Ping)
CHICAGO, April 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Consul-General in Chicago Zhao Jian said the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) provides development opportunities and joint benefits for all participants.
Zhao made the remarks at a Chinese language press reception on Thursday held by the Chinese Consulate General in Chicago.
"Though originating from China, the BRI belongs to the whole world. BRI is not a geopolitical tool or an exclusionary bloc, but an initiative for economic cooperation," noted Zhao.
Initiated by China in 2013, the BRI has yielded fruitful results. A total of 126 countries, including developed and developing nations, and 29 international organizations have signed cooperation documents with China on the initiative, according to official figures.
"It reflects the strong influence and appeal of the BRI," said Zhao, adding that the BRI has delivered tangible benefits to local regions and people.
Zhao said that thanks to the BRI, the landlocked country of Kazakhstan has gained convenient export channels; the Port of Piraeus in Greece has been transformed into one of the fastest-growing container ports in the world; Egypt has become the world's third largest producer of fiberglass next to the United States and China.
"Instead of a zero-sum game, the BRI is meant for mutual benefits and win-win outcomes," Zhao said, adding that China aims to achieve common prosperity and a shared future for humanity.
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