Europe's energetic bottom-up response to Belt and Road

These developments are important because they come from academia, businesses and think tanks in Europe, and could further enrich the initiative. They also show that even Europe's non-governmental sectors recognize the potential of the initiative, which in turn could encourage more Europeans to participate in discussions on the massive initiative for intercontinental connectivity.

The governments of European countries and China should pay close attention to these developments and the outcomes they yield, because they could help them better implement the initiative.

Basically, sustainable and green economic development, bridging the digital gap, and enhancing cultural and tourism exchanges among Asian, European and African countries should be the focus of the Belt and Road Initiative, though infrastructure construction must also be given priority in countries where it is required.

And it is here that pioneer's vision comes into play. After announcing the Belt and Road Initiative, China has given topmost priority to common prosperity and development, instead of geopolitical considerations. And contrary to speculation, it has no intention of building a "private road" to penetrate the markets of Europe or Africa.

The organizers of the London and Paris forums and other European organizations know these facts well and understand that China's initiative could create more jobs and business opportunities, which will help sluggish economies recover in right earnest. And following their examples, more Europeans, Asians and Africans are likely to come up with novel ideas, establish more business networks and form think tanks to take advantage of the Belt and Road Initiative.

China is still mobilizing governments worldwide to support the initiative, although more than 70 countries have already done so. China, nevertheless, should also make efforts to win greater support from the non-governmental sector, because collective support and participation is essential for the success of Belt and Road Initiative and to ensure common prosperity.

The author is deputy editor of China Daily European Edition. fujing@chinadaily.com.cn