The first Belt and Road Conference for Overseas Chinese Cooperation and Development kicked off on Thursday in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality. Aimed at harnessing the collective strength of overseas Chinese communities, the event seeks to advance the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative.
Over 500 representatives of overseas Chinese from more than 110 countries and regions gathered to foster collaboration and innovation. Deals worth 43.79 billion yuan (approximately $6.13 billion) were inked, covering 66 projects across sectors like green energy, cross-border trade, advanced manufacturing, and the digital economy.
A significant highlight was the launch of the Belt and Road Overseas Chinese Business Network. Founding members represent Chinese business organizations from 72 countries and regions. This network aspires to integrate global Chinese business resources and promote cooperation in trade, science, technology, and culture.
The conference also showcased ten exemplary “Overseas Chinese for Belt and Road” cases, highlighting contributions in fields such as new energy, manufacturing, and humanitarian aid.
Jointly organized by the All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese and the governments of Chongqing and Sichuan Province, the event underscores the pivotal role of overseas Chinese in propelling the Belt and Road Initiative forward.
