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Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev touched down in Beijing on Thursday, kicking off high-stakes diplomacy at the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. The event, celebrating the initiative's 10th anniversary, has become a global magnet with over 130 countries represented – think of it as the Coachella of infrastructure projects, but with more trade deals and fewer flower crowns.
The Belt & Road Initiative (BRI), China's flagship connectivity program, has transformed Eurasian logistics over the past decade. “This forum isn’t just about railways and ports,” says Beijing-based analyst Li Wei. “It’s reshaping how emerging economies collaborate in a multipolar world.”
All eyes are on Central Asia this year, with Kazakhstan playing a key role as China’s western trade gateway. Young professionals in Almaty tell us they’re watching for green energy partnerships and digital corridor announcements that could create new tech hubs across the region.
The summit comes as Global South nations increasingly seek alternatives to traditional financing models. With representatives from Africa to Latin America attending, expect late-night negotiations over everything from lithium mining to AI-powered supply chains.
with over 130 countries represented – think of it as the Coachella of infrastructure projects, but with more trade deals and fewer flower crowns.
across the region.
BRI at 10: Building Roads, Bridges & Shared Futures
