by Xinhua writer Li Laifang

BEIJING, May 22 (Xinhua) -- Some may disagree, but from the numbers alone -- 30 world leaders and more than 270 outcomes -- the first Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF) in Beijing has to be considered a huge success.

Nearly four years after President Xi Jinping proposed the Belt and Road Initiative, the timely meeting on May 14 and 15 achieved its goal of building consensus and deepening cooperation while mapping out key projects for years to come.

As China has been congratulated on the success, the event has been called "a PR exercise" and "a political show" by those racking their brains to put down what was, by any standards, a very fruitful meeting. It was quite simply the most important diplomatic event of the year hosted by China.

In his opening address at the forum, Xi spoke of the progress in connectivity in infrastructure and another four key fields, and elaborated on the guiding principles behind the initiative. He also pledged massive financial support.

China used the occasion to dispel some groundless concerns, openly promising not to engage in some geopolitical game or act only in its own interests.

False and irresponsible remarks say more about the skeptics than they do about China. It seems that there are plenty of people out there who don't want to be part of the expanding circle of friends of the Belt and Road and are not motivated to seek a better life for all.

They also disregard a basic fact that China has been the largest contributor to global economic growth over recent years. China is undertaking its responsibility to promote sustainable and inclusive global growth that benefits all.

China is neither an opportunist nor a philanthropist. The Belt and Road features win-win outcomes and joint contributions. China seeks common development with the world, aligning the initiative with other countries' development strategies and cooperation at regional or international levels.

At a new start, the Belt and Road needs joint and arduous work of all participating countries to turn the clear roadmap outlined by the BRF into reality, deliver more tangible benefits and build a community of shared future for mankind.

Defaming the Belt and Road Initiative is nothing more than hot air from those still living in the past.

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Belt and Road forum strengthens trade ties, sounds call against protectionism

BEIJING, May 16 (Xinhua) -- The Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF) concluded here Monday, and officials and experts said the forum has strengthened international trade ties and sounded a call against protectionism.

The forum has strengthened international trade ties and sought new channels of distributing goods to bring about mutual benefit for all, said Ignacio Martinez Cortes, head of the Research Laboratory for Trade, Economy and Business. Full Story