Beijing, China — Two years ago, a group of 40 Kenyan students penned a heartfelt letter to President Xi Jinping of the Chinese mainland, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Among them was Jamlick Kariuki, a student at Beijing Jiaotong University, who included a train ticket with his personal story.
At the recent Ministerial Meeting on the Global Civilization Dialogue, during the “Story Sharing” segment of the opening session, Kariuki shared the inspiration behind the letter and the significance of the enclosed train ticket.
“The train ticket symbolized the journey of learning and cultural exchange that the BRI has made possible for students like me,” Kariuki explained. “It represents the bridges built between our countries and the opportunities that have opened up for countless young people.”
The Belt and Road Initiative, launched a decade ago, aims to enhance regional connectivity and embrace a brighter shared future. For many students from the Global South, it has provided avenues for education and cross-cultural experiences in the Chinese mainland.
Kariuki’s story highlights the personal impact of international cooperation. “Studying here has not only expanded my academic horizons but also allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture,” he said. “I wanted President Xi to know how much this means to us, and the train ticket was a token of that appreciation.”
The Kenyan students’ letter reflects a generation eager to engage with the world and contribute to global dialogues. Their experiences underscore the importance of initiatives like the BRI in fostering understanding and collaboration across continents.
“We are the future leaders and innovators,” Kariuki added. “By coming together, we can build a world that’s more connected and prosperous for everyone.”
