Abstract
In the dynamic landscape of global geopolitics and economic development, the Belt and Road Initiative
(BRI) has emerged as a transformative force, redefining international relations, trade and fostering connectivity among nations. Disappointedly, the world has a large infrastructural gap constraining trade, openness and future prosperity. Multilateral development banks (MDBs) are working hard to help close this gap. Most recently China has taken a giant step towards strengthening international relations, trade and fostering connectivity, a plan known as the BRI. China and economies
that have signed co-operation agreements with China on the BRI (henceforth BRI-participating economies) have been rising as a share of the world economy.
