Page 4 - ON BUILDING A HUMAN COMMUNITY WITH A SHARED FUTURE

THE SILK ROAD ECONOMIC BELT

that will benefit the people of every country along the route. To turn
this vision for cooperation into reality, we can begin with the following
specific areas, connecting them over time to cover the whole region.
First, we can strengthen policy communication. Countries can
communicate fully on economic development strategy and policy.
Working on the principle of seeking common ground while setting
differences aside, we can discuss and design plans and measures for
advancing regional cooperation and give a green light in policy and law
for regional economic integration.
Second, we can improve thoroughfare connectivity. The SCO is
currently in discussions on a transport facilitation agreement. The early
signing and implementation of this document will open up a major
transport route connecting the Pacific to the Baltic. Building on this,
we are ready to actively explore with all parties ways of going about
improving cross-border transport infrastructure, working step by step
toward a transport network connecting East Asia, West Asia, and South
Asia to facilitate economic development and the movement of people in
our region.
Third, we can facilitate unimpeded trade. The envisaged Silk Road
economic belt is home to nearly three billion people, represents the
biggest market in the world, and has unparalleled potential. The potential
for cooperation on trade and investment between the countries involved
is vast. We should discuss and make appropriate arrangements for trade
and investment facilitation, remove trade barriers, reduce trade and
investment costs, increase the speed and quality of regional economic
flows, and achieve progress that benefits everyone.
Fourth, we can enhance monetary circulation. China and Russia
have already begun positive cooperation on settling trade in local
currencies, achieving encouraging results and building significant
experience in this respect. This practice merits sharing with others in the
region. If our countries can realize current account and capital account
local currency convertibility and settlement, it will significantly lower
circulation costs, increase our ability to withstand financial risk, and make
the economies of our region more internationally competitive.
Fifth, we can increase understanding between our peoples. The key
to relations between states lies in the amity between their peoples. For

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