Chinese President Xi Jinping attends the opening ceremony of the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation and delivers a keynote speech at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, on 18 October (Xinhua) 

Chinese President Xi Jinping's opening of the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing on 18 October marked the beginning of what he termed the “golden decade” for this transformative project. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is more than just an investment; it's a lifeline for nations seeking to enhance their development, bridging the gap between dream and reality. 

The vision driving the BRI is one of collective progress and shared prosperity. China launched this noble initiative in 2013, driven by a commitment to create a fairer global economic order. China's own remarkable and unprecedented development serves as an example of its dedication to this cause. The BRI is a beacon of hope for those who believe in economic justice and sustainable growth. 

At its core, the BRI hinges on long-term planning and meticulous implementation. It has already yielded significant benefits for the countries that wisely chose to be part of this transformative journey. The introduction of innovative infrastructure and high-quality development practices has spurred connectivity and mobility, laying the foundation for increased people-to-people exchanges. 

This grand gathering in Beijing has brought together 4,000 delegates representing more than 130 countries and over 30 international organisations, including heads of state. Their mission is clear: to review the accomplishments and challenges of the past decade and to chart a course for the future. The scale of this initiative demands such periodic reflection, ensuring that it remains on the right track and continues to bring about positive change. 

The BRI emerged out of necessity. The shifting global economic landscape has exposed the inadequacies of existing systems. Inconsistent progress and development had led to stagnation and, in some cases, regression. Selfish and manipulative monetary and financial systems, engineered for the benefit of a privileged few, had exacerbated these issues. The BRI’s commitment to fairness and inclusivity addresses these fundamental flaws, offering hope for a brighter economic future. 

The success and growing popularity of the BRI have not gone unnoticed by other nations. Many are now attempting to emulate this ground-breaking initiative by launching their own infrastructure projects. This is evidence of BRI’s impact and the global vision for projects that prioritise cooperation, development, and shared benefits. 

In conclusion, President Xi's opening of the forum in Beijing signals the continuation of a visionary journey. The BRI represents more than just infrastructure development; it symbolises the hope for a more equitable, prosperous, and interconnected world. As representatives and leaders convene to reflect on the past and plan for the future, the BRI is seeking to transform the livelihoods of people and forge a path towards collective prosperity. The “golden decade” of the BRI promises to be a pivotal period in this transformative global endeavour. 

The author is director of the Diplomatic Society of South Africa.