Belt and Road Initiative poses no threat to Western society

The Belt and Road Initiative will provide opportunities rather than threats to western society as the Initiative facilitates cooperation between China and the developed world in numerous ways, said Peter Nolan, Professor and Director of the Center for Development Studies at the University of Cambridge.

Nolan, a prominent sinologist, made the remarks during a recent interview with Xinhua News Agency.

Author of "Understanding China, the Silk Road and the Communist Manifesto", "China and the Global Economy" and "China and the Global Business Revolution", Nolan expressed that the Initiative is structured to improve the economic development and livelihoods of the countries involved. It presents good opportunities for Western countries rather than threats, as some countries have misinterpreted.

Taking the high rises in Shanghai as an example, Nolan explained that the constructions along the Belt and Road will not be a unilateral undertaking by Chinese enterprises alone: International corporations such as Mitsubishi, OTIS, Schneider and Siemens can provide modern indoor amenities such as elevators in the buildings built by Chinese enterprises.

With their advanced technologies in sectors such as IT, aviation and automobile manufacturing, developed countries can benefit from the Initiative with win-win outcomes as promulgated by China, the professor commented.

In line with the history of the Silk Road's enduring influence, the efforts to ensure peace and prosperity in the member countries along the routes is expected to boost China's confidence as it seeks a new development path.

However, the professor also pointed out that the different laws, geopolitical situations and sovereign administrations will increase the difficulty in implementing the Initiative among different nations.