The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) marked its 10th anniversary with an exceptional gesture by the China Post. They released a commemorative stamp that beautifully encapsulates China’s dedication to fostering a global community of shared futures. Such initiatives highlight the country’s ambition to strengthen bonds beyond its borders, underlining its role as a global leader in building interconnected networks of communication and trade.
Designed with intricate details, the stamp features both Chinese and English inscriptions: “The 10th Anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative.” At its heart, a radiant golden number ’10’ is prominently displayed, encompassing the essence of the BRI’s decade-long journey. The background of the stamp, crafted with the Earth’s meridians and parallels, is more than just an artistic choice. It stands as a symbol of the hopeful future the initiative envisions – a shared destiny for humanity, connected through the BRI’s vast networks.
Supporting the golden ’10’ is the depiction of a remarkable art installation named the ‘Golden Bridge on the Silk Road.’ This creation by the renowned Chinese artist, Shu Yong, is not just a tribute to the ancient Zhaozhou Bridge of Hebei Province, but it also carries a profound message. It speaks of unity, of a world where barriers fall, and communities come together, sharing their future. Over the years, this iconic representation has adorned significant events, with notable appearances at the 2015 Milan Expo and the 2017 Belt and Road Forum in Beijing.
For Shu Yong, being part of the stamp’s design team was both a personal and professional honor. In his words, stamps resonate as a nation’s emblem, narrating its stories and ambitions. In Chinese culture, bridges are not mere constructions. They symbolize connections, pathways that enable dialogues, and bridges that diminish divides. The inclusion of his bridge installation in the stamp design not only recognizes his artistic contribution but also brilliantly captures the core spirit of the BRI.
The central number ’10’ in the stamp is thoughtfully composed. It comprises various symbols representing shipping, air traffic, logistics, and even flowers. Each of these elements signifies the holistic approach of the BRI, which prioritizes extensive consultation, collective efforts, and mutual benefits. Such an approach has resulted in remarkable achievements like the China-Laos Railway, the new Haifa port in Israel, and the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway, all of which stand as testaments to the BRI’s commitment to connectivity.
Shu further elaborated on the significance of the flowers within the ’10’. Every flower represents the diverse cultures of countries worldwide, emphasizing the beauty of unity in diversity. This, according to Shu, embodies China’s dedication to mutual learning, shared prosperity, and the overall well-being of nations globally.
To mark this grand occasion, the China Post has announced the release of 7.05 million copies of the stamp, priced at 1.2 yuan (16 cents) each. Alongside this, a collaborative effort with the Hongkong Post and Macao Post and Telecommunications will present a special stamp booklet. This collection, featuring various stamps and sheetlets, will serve as a memorable tribute to the BRI’s remarkable 10-year journey.
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