China and the World Forum: The Belt and Road Initiative, a 10-Year Anniversary

For this China and the World Forum, we are very honored to have the presence of Kishore Mahbubani, Dr. Henry Huiyao Wang and Professor Wang Yiwei, three of the most notable voices regarding global affairs of China in the modern era.

The two hour discussion will focus on the tenth anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, known within China as the One Belt One Road - a global infrastructure development strategy adopted by the Chinese government in 2013 to invest in more than 150 countries and international organizations. Kishore Mahbubani, Dr. Wang and Professor Yiwei will provide their expertise on the subject and offer their assessments for our global audience.

Here's a brief overview of each speaker's background and potential contributions to the discussion:

Kishore Mahbubani: As a prominent author, diplomat, and academic, Kishore Mahbubani's insights into global affairs and geopolitics will likely provide a balanced and comprehensive perspective on the BRI's implications for international relations. He might touch upon topics such as the initiative's role in China's rise as a global power, its impact on geopolitics, and the opportunities and challenges it presents for various countries.

Dr. Henry Huiyao Wang: Being the founder of the Center for China and Globalization (CCG), Dr. Wang's expertise in economics, globalization, and China's engagement with the world will likely contribute to discussions about the economic dimensions of the BRI. He might delve into topics such as infrastructure investments, trade partnerships, economic growth, and the potential for fostering connectivity and cooperation across regions.

Professor Wang Yiwei: With his academic background and research focus on China's foreign policy and international relations, Professor Wang Yiwei can provide insights into the strategic motivations behind the BRI. He might discuss how the initiative aligns with China's broader foreign policy goals, its impact on regional stability, and its role in shaping China's global image and soft power.

During the two-hour discussion, it's advisable to structure the conversation to cover a range of topics related to the Belt and Road Initiative, such as:

The origins and goals of the BRI: What prompted China to launch this initiative, and what are its primary objectives?
Economic implications: How has the BRI affected global trade, investment, and economic development in participating countries?
Geopolitical considerations: What are the geopolitical implications of the BRI for different regions and major global powers?
Infrastructure development: What are some notable infrastructure projects undertaken as part of the BRI, and how have they impacted local communities?
Challenges and criticisms: What challenges has the BRI faced, both domestically and internationally? How have concerns about debt sustainability, environmental impacts, and transparency been addressed?
Future prospects: How might the BRI evolve in the coming years, and how will it shape the international order?
By addressing these and other relevant topics, the discussion can offer a well-rounded understanding