BRI Nexus Promoting Multilateralism in a Post-Pandemic World

BORN of centuries-long interactions between China and other civilizations along the ancient Silk Road, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) appears as the quintessential manifestation of multilateralism on the world stage since the Second World War which was, sad to say, one of quite a different kind.

- MONEEF R. ZOU’BI

The BRI sets out to capture the spirit of the Silk Road, or to articulate, in contemporary vernacular, an Eastern inclination towards human solidarity.

Described by former Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs (2012–2013) Bob Carr as “China’s contemporary conversation with the world,” the character of the BRI is one of engagement. China seeks through its involvement in world affairs to introduce a roadmap for future global economic growth and connectivity. Interestingly enough, this mission accords with the opinion of former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Renard Foxx, expressed in his comment, “The reality about transportation is that it’s future-oriented. If we’re planning for what we have, we’re behind the curve.”

The first five years (2013-2018) of the BRI polarized international attention, and at the same time provoked considerable debate. Typically described as a cooperative arrangement amongst like-minded states committed to advancing worldwide infrastructure and connectivity projects, the BRI has expanded in breadth and depth in tandem with the countries and players involved in it, and the objectives pursued.