Through a vast network of land and sea routes, Xi wants to connect China to South East Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

It’s a massive undertaking at its core. China has built high-speed rails, gas pipelines, and seaports since its inception 10 years ago.

As a result of these infrastructure networks, passengers and cargo can travel faster and more freely.

Nevertheless, some analysts contend that the Belt and Road will put China at the center of all trade routes, rewire existing networks, cementing the country’s status as a global power. At the Belt and Road Summit hosted by his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin has just arrived in Beijing.

Today marks the 10th anniversary of Xi’s ambitious plan to connect China to the world through roads, trains, ports, and investments.

The two-day summit will open today with a speech from Mr Xi and a meeting with Mr Putin.