GLOBAL OUTREACH & EXCHANGE: BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE The HKUST Belt and Road Forum, themed “Navigating New Frontiers: The Future of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI),” was successfully held on October 7, attracting nearly 100 participants from across the university community, including students, faculty, staff, and alumni. This gathering provided a critical platform to discuss the BRI’s ongoing impact on international cooperation, connectivity, and regional prosperity. We were privileged to have Mr. Nicholas Ho, the Belt and Road Commissioner of the HKSAR Government, as our keynote speaker. His Opening Remarks set a collaborative tone for the event, emphasizing the importance of the BRI in strengthening economic ties and fostering mutual understanding among participating nations. The forum featured an esteemed panel of diplomats from several Belt and Road countries, including: Mr. Chaturont Chaiyakam, Consul General of Thailand in Hong Kong Mr. Kerim Evcin, Consul General of the Republic of Turkiye in Hong Kong Mr. Muzambli Markam, Consul General of Malaysia in Hong Kong and Macau Mr. Riaz Shaikh, Consul General of Pakistan to Hong Kong Mrs. Endah Yuliarti, Consul for Information and Socio-Cultural Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia in Hong Kong These diplomats shared valuable insights into their respective countries’ experiences and contributions to the BRI, highlighting the initiative’s role in facilitating trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. The panel discussion, expertly moderated by Prof. Naubahar Sharif, Head of the Division of Public Policy at HKUST, explored a range of topics, including: Infrastructure Development: How BRI projects have transformed regional landscapes and improved connectivity. Trade Dynamics: The effects of the BRI on trade flows and economic collaboration among participating nations. Educational Collaborations: Opportunities for academic exchange and partnerships that arise from BRI initiatives. Cultural Connectivity: The importance of cultural exchange in building lasting relationships between countries. Prof. Sharif encouraged an engaging dialogue among panelists and attendees, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives on the future of the BRI. As we reflect on the success of this forum, we are excited about the potential for future collaborations and deeper engagements with the Consulates General of BRI countries. We look forward to building on these connections to enhance our collective efforts in promoting international cooperation and understanding. 29 CONFERENCES AND EVENTS
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