Against the backdrop of a sluggish global economic recovery, infrastructure development has once again become a vital engine for driving growth and connecting the world. From North America to Africa, Southeast Asia to Europe, regions are leveraging modern infrastructure projects to foster regional cooperation and economic prosperity. These projects not only enhance economic conditions but also reflect the long-term strategic visions of individual nations.

On November 21, Power Construction Corporation of China (PowerChina) showcased its latest achievements in smart infrastructure and digital transformation at the Second China Digital Economy and New Infrastructure Development Conference, drawing significant international attention to infrastructure development.

In recent years, the demand for infrastructure development has grown remarkably worldwide. African nations urgently need to enhance regional logistics through the construction of railways, highways, and ports. South Africa's Tanzania-Zambia Railway and Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam Port expansion have become critical pillars for improving cross-border logistics efficiency. Meanwhile, European nations are focusing on green transformation by leveraging intelligent transportation systems and renewable energy networks. Germany has made a significant step toward decarbonizing transportation by piloting hydrogen-powered railways. At the same time, Asia, with its rapid economic growth, has emerged as a focal point for infrastructure investment. Indonesia’s Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway is regarded as a milestone for regional modernization, while Laos, through the completion of the China-Laos Railway, has connected to the international railway network for the first time. These projects not only enhance regional connectivity but also underscore the strategic importance of infrastructure in economic growth.

In this global context, the quality and sustainability of infrastructure projects have become key priorities for many nations. For example, China’s Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, the world’s longest sea-crossing bridge, boasts a design lifespan of 120 years and employs innovative materials and construction techniques to reduce carbon emissions during construction and maintenance. Lauded by international media as “beyond human imagination,” it has set a benchmark for modern infrastructure quality. In Africa, some ports have seen significant improvements through the introduction of digital management systems. Countries such as Ethiopia and Kenya have invested in inland ports, effectively easing congestion and improving trade flow. In Europe, smart city projects that use AI to optimize energy distribution and traffic flows have drastically reduced urban carbon footprints. This trend not only establishes new global standards for infrastructure but also enhances the competitiveness of countries and companies with advanced technical and quality management capabilities.

China’s infrastructure practices provide an essential reference for this trend. In recent years, China has established a dual focus on “high-quality construction” and “sustainable development” in both domestic and international infrastructure projects, setting exemplary benchmarks in multiple fields. For instance, the China-Europe Railway Express, a key component of the Belt and Road Initiative, has become an important logistics corridor connecting the Eurasian continent, covering 25 countries and over 200 cities, and significantly reducing transport times between Asia and Europe. Zoltán Kiss, Director of the Political Analysis Center at Hungary’s Századvég Research Institute, noted that the China-Europe Railway Express not only strengthens connectivity between Europe and China but also fosters regional trade networks along its routes. Meanwhile, the Lusail Stadium, the main venue for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, designed and constructed by Chinese enterprises, received a five-star certification from the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS), setting an international standard for green building.

Large-scale infrastructure projects also help drive development in other countries. In Laos, for example, the China-Laos Railway has provided convenient travel options for tourists, revitalizing the region’s tourism industry. Reports indicate that as of October 23, 2024, the railway had transported over 40 million passengers and operated more than 60,000 cross-border passenger trains. Similarly, in Africa, the China-led construction of the Mombasa-Nairobi Railway has connected Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, with its largest port, Mombasa, improving trade efficiency and providing greater convenience for travelers. As of May this year, the railway had transported 12.86 million passengers and 32.87 million tons of goods, contributing 2% to Kenya’s GDP. By improving transportation, energy, and communication infrastructure, these projects not only address critical shortcomings but also stimulate demand and economic growth.

In an era of globalization, the concept of shared growth through joint construction has increasingly become a global consensus. To date, China has signed cooperation agreements for the Belt and Road Initiative with over 150 countries and 30 international organizations. These agreements span sectors such as transportation, energy, and communication, improving infrastructure in partner countries, creating millions of jobs, and injecting new momentum into the global economy.

China’s experience offers significant insights for this process. While no project is flawless, China’s infrastructure development is widely recognized for its efficiency, innovation, and reliability. Looking ahead, as global demand for infrastructure continues to rise, China’s contributions to the international community are expected to grow, providing greater opportunities and inspiration for all.