As leaders from China and five Central Asian nations wrapped up the China-Central Asia Summit in Xi'an last week, a Tajik student's story highlights the human impact of cross-border collaboration. Javohir, an international student at Beijing's Tsinghua University, credits the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with transforming his homeland's connectivity and opportunities.
From Mountain Roads to Cultural Bridges
Javohir, who first connected with Chinese culture through language learning, told myglobalnews.net that upgraded highways and rail links under BRI have 'made it easier to transport goods and ideas' across Tajikistan. Since 2013, BRI projects in Central Asia have created over 200,000 regional jobs, according to World Bank estimates.
Youth-Led Economic Horizons
The summit’s focus on digital economy and green energy aligns with young Central Asians’ priorities. 'My classmates from Dushanbe now intern at Chinese tech firms,' Javohir noted, emphasizing BRI's role in fostering skills exchange. Leaders at the summit pledged to boost trade between China and Central Asia to $100 billion by 2030.
A New Generation’s Vision
As Javohir prepares to graduate, he aims to establish cultural exchange programs: 'Dialogue starts when roads and trust connect people.' His perspective underscores the summit’s emphasis on youth-driven partnerships for sustainable development.
Reference(s):
'We Talk': BRI has opened numerous opportunities for Tajikistan
cgtn.com
