The Role of the “One Belt, One Road” Initiative in the Transformation of the World Order

Abstract

The article examines the problem of the development and implementation of “the One Belt, One Road” Initiative (OBOR), as well as its impact on the transformation of the contemporary international order. It is shown that the initiative created by China in 2013 called “the Silk Road Economic Belt” and “the Maritime Silk Road” of the XXI Century, and then renamed “the One Belt, One Road” Initiative, is one of the projects that will continue the path of dynamic development, turning China into a leading power in the world economy and politics in a tangible way perspective. The unprecedented economic progress over the past fifty years reflects the dynamism of the CPC leadership, starting with Deng Xiaoping and Xi Jinping. The transformation from a low-income agricultural economy to an economy that is dynamically developing and based on strategic foresight.

The holding of “the third Belt and Road Forum” on October 17-18, 2023 in Beijing reflected an innovative approach to maintaining China’s “great leap forward”. Xi Jinping outlined eight main steps to promote constructive cooperation, focusing on multidimensional networks, open economy, practical cooperation, green development, scientific innovation, people-to-people contacts, assessment systems and multilateral cooperation.

It has been proven that the “OBOR” initiative is, first of all, a reflection of China’s strategic vision to strengthen its influence in various parts of the world, especially in Asia and Africa, by providing assistance in infrastructure development and industrialization. The global infrastructure projects of the “OBOR” initiative are a prime example of China’s commitment to soft power and securing its investments to realize its short- and long-term interests. 

It is shown that in the coming decades, humanity may witness a paradigm shift in the world order, centered around the “One Belt, One Road” initiative as China’s signature foreign policy. The goal of the One Belt, One Road” initiative is to achieve both an economic and a political vision. As China provides infrastructure investments and infrastructure development experience to the countries of the region, it will help the countries of the region to develop economically or share China’s economic prosperity. The success and viability of the “OBOR” initiative depends on China’s ability to continue to succeed through its Chinese model, its ability to protect a huge number of assets abroad, and the unique political preferences of countries in the region. Before China can master the power of its own ideas, China’s economic interests in the region will inevitably be protected and secured by its growing military might.