On January 30, 2015, Chinese Embassy in Moscow held a workshop on the concept of the Great Silk Road Economic Belt, with the focus on Russian-Chinese joint efforts for implementation of the project. The event was moderated by Ambassador Li Hui, who outlined the key concept's principles and objectives, as well as some points on Russia's role.
On January 30, 2015, Chinese Embassy in Moscow held a workshop on the concept of the Great Silk Road Economic Belt, with the focus on Russian-Chinese joint efforts for implementation of the project. The event was moderated by Ambassador Li Hui, who outlined the key concept's principles and objectives, as well as some points on Russia's role:
— Moscow's overall approach to the concept, as well as possible fears and concerns.
— Priorities of the two countries.
— Prospects for integration of infrastructure networks.
— The project's input in development of Siberia and the Far East.
— The Silk Road through the prism of the Eurasian Economic Union, Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS.
RIAC Program Manager Helena Alekseyenkova spoke on common interests of Russia and China in the economic development, stability and security of Central Asia – the region to be perceived by the concept as a co-development area rather than a transit territory. To this end, the EEU and Great Silk Road seem hardly conflicting, since the former is aimed at institutional and juridical association and the latter provides for creation of transportation and logistical network, economic cooperation and co-development.
The debate was attended by representatives of Russian ministries and agencies in charge of economic development, transportation and agriculture, RAS Institute for far Eastern Studies, Institute of World Economy and International Relations, MGIMO-University, Diplomatic Academy, Council for Foreign and Defense Policy, RIAC, Council for Foreign and Defense Policy, Valdai Club, Izborsk Club, Russian Institute for Strategic Studies, Gazprom, Russian Railways, as well as other think tanks, academic institutions, universities and corporations.
