Future of the world mapped out, says Wee

BEIJING: China’s pledges on the Belt and Road initiative are practical initiatives, and not just lip service, Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said.

The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department said China had set a fine example by committing large funds to lead the Belt and Road initiative for the mutual benefit of all.

“It proves that China is very committed,” he said after attending the opening ceremony of the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation here.

Besides additional funds of 100 billion yuan (RM62.9bil) and loans of 380 billion yuan (RM238.9bil), Chinese President Xi Jinping, in his keynote address, also promised research opportunities for 2,500 scientists and engineers.

Describing Xi’s speech as very forward-looking, Dr Wee said Xi had mapped out the future path for the world in 45 minutes. Xi’s concept of peaceful co-existence was the most prominent message, he added.

“Carry no weapons and bring along friendship, like Ming Dynasty voyager Admiral Zheng He,” Dr Wee said.

Xi’s “21st century Digital Silk Road” would also boost the development of many countries, he added.

“China’s e-commerce market is huge, so when China opens up this sector to the world, it will be an example of peaceful co-existence for mutual benefit.”

On the forum, Dr Wee said this was an event of the highest class, attracting more than 1,000 delegates from all over the world.

Accompanying the heads of state were business and political representatives signing agreements on the sidelines of the forum.