KUNMING — The 2025 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road opened on Tuesday in Kunming in China's Yunnan, under the theme “Shared Media Responsibility for Exchanges and Mutual Learning among Civilisations.”

 

The two-day forum, hosted by People’s Daily, has drawn more than 200 representatives from 165 media outlets and organisations across 87 countries.

 

The aims to deepen dialogue, promote collaboration and highlight the role of the press in advancing understanding among cultures along the Belt and Road, according to organisers.

 

Wang Ning, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the People’s Congress of Yunnan Province, underscored the global significance of the initiative, noting that while the Belt and Road was proposed by China, its benefits are shared worldwide.

 

He said that in the 12 years since its launch, it has grown into the largest platform for international cooperation. Wang also highlighted the vital role of the media in amplifying voices and fostering connections across nations.

 

Zheng Jianbang, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, echoed this view, stressing that the “Belt and Road reflects both a shared history of cultural exchange in Asia and a vision for humanity’s common future.”

 

Speakers also pointed to the initiative’s tangible economic achievements.

 

Wang Gang, Deputy Head of the Publicity Department, revealed that in 2024 alone, direct investment in Belt and Road countries exceeded $50 billion, creating thousands of local jobs.

 

Li Yang, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Transport, added that improved connectivity has facilitated trade and travel, “thanks to cooperation among participating nations.”

 

Cultural and media exchanges were also emphasised. Chen Jiayou, editor-in-chief of People’s Daily, said the forum has become a vital platform for dialogue since its establishment in 2014, while Yu Shaoling, President of People’s Daily, described the Belt and Road as a bridge of cultural understanding and human exchange.

 

International participants brought their own perspectives.

 

Hani Wafa, editor-in-chief of Al Riyadh newspaper in Saudi Arabia, drew parallels between the initiative and the ancient Silk Road, noting that both have served as conduits for cultural interaction. “Saudi Arabia sees alignment between the Belt and Road and the country’s Vision 2030.”

 

This year’s programme includes plenary discussions and breakout sessions, where media professionals will exchange views on digital transformation, responsible reporting and the media’s role in fostering mutual trust.

 

Launched in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative is China’s flagship international development strategy, aiming to enhance connectivity through infrastructure, trade, investment and cultural exchange across Asia, Africa, Europe and beyond. Drawing inspiration from the ancient Silk Road, it seeks to promote shared growth and cooperation among participating nations.