The Regional Dimension of the Belt and Road Initiative: Origins, Logic of Evolution, and Characteristics of Development

This article comprehensively examines the “Belt and Road” Initiative (BRI) as a key Chinese foreign policy strategy, transforming the global economic and political architecture. It analyzes the historical roots, definition (openness, inclusivity, and cooperation), underlying reasons, and strategic objectives of the BRI, tracing its origins to the Silk Road. The initiative’s proposal is driven by the need to expand markets, secure resource access, and enhance China’s geopolitical influence, alongside domestic factors such as overcapacity. The evolution of the BRI is examined across three dimensions: theoretical logic, practical implementation, and rule innovation, reflecting a shift from “passive adaptation” to “active shaping”. The study covers the geography of BRI implementation across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America, highlighting regional specificities dependent on local conditions. The BRI is reconfiguring global connectivity paradigms, demonstrating flexibility in adapting to diverse regional contexts, thereby fostering high-quality development and international cooperation.