ChinaAdjusts Belt and Road InitiativeAmid Debt Concerns and Withdrawals

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was launched in 2013 to boost trade through infrastructure projects funded by Chinese loans. Over 150 countries have signed BRI agreements.

BRI has financed major transportation, energy, and other projects across Africa, Asia, and beyond. But some countries have struggled to repay Chinese loans.

In response to debt problems, China is scaling back financing and encouraging greener BRI investments in areas like renewable energy.

Italy is expected to withdraw from BRI due to economic losses and debt concerns. Other countries like Pakistan and Zambia face heavy debt burdens from Chinese loans.

BRI is shifting from government-backed infrastructure loans to more direct investment by Chinese companies into projects with revenue potential.