By Zhang Maorong, researcher with China Institute of Contemporary International Relations; cartoon drawing by Liao Tingting

In the early summer, everything seems full of energy. On May 14, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote address at the opening ceremony of the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation where representatives of more than 100 countries stood in attendance.

He outlined a new blueprint for future development of B&R and has won applause and high praise from participants.

Xi's speech, covering legends of the ancient Silk Road and a modern story of the New Silk Road, set a milestone in the development history of the B&R Initiative. It illustrated profound connotations for the Silk Road spirit, and offered much inspiration to the world.

Xi summed up the fruitful achievements of the B&R construction in the past four years and put forward the goal and direction for building the Belt and Road into a road of peace, prosperity, opening-up as well as innovation, and one that connects different civilizations. Xi unveiled a series of new policies and measures as well.

Xi's speech was delivered in a glorious position, demonstrating new prospects for the Belt and Road Initiative, and blowing a new horn for countries along the routes and beyond to advance the project of the century to a new level.

Public opinions generally agree Xi's speech is expected to inject fresh impetus into the B&R Initiative, and point out a new path for building a community of shared destiny for humanity, which would serve as a lighthouse to illuminate the world.

(The opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Panview or CCTV.com)

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