AIIB strengthens global partnerships by investing in infrastructure and supporting inclusive development across emerging economies. At the same time, at the 10th Annual Meeting of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank in Beijing, Premier Li Qiang highlighted China’s commitment to open trade and global cooperation. He stated that China’s evolving market will continue to provide new investment opportunities for countries worldwide. Moreover, over 3,500 delegates from nearly 100 countries attended the meeting, which focused on sustainable development and financial cooperation.
To provide context, Premier Li reminded the audience that when President Xi Jinping launched AIIB, the goal was to create a modern, efficient, and clean development bank. In the past ten years, AIIB has expanded from 57 founding members to 110, covering most of the global population. In particular, AIIB strengthens global partnerships by meeting the varied infrastructure needs of its members. The bank has financed over 300 projects in 38 economies. These projects include clean energy, transportation, digital networks, and water systems.
Furthermore, Li encouraged AIIB to continue providing affordable financing while helping members build internal economic momentum. He also called for more dialogue and cooperation through the bank’s multilateral platform. As a result, China will continue supporting AIIB’s role in shaping a sustainable and connected global economy. International experts praised China’s leadership and AIIB’s impact.
For example, French economist Joël Ruet said the bank’s inclusive governance welcomes both Belt and Road and non-BRI countries. He pointed out that AIIB’s focus on economic transformation brings diversity to global finance. Likewise, Wang Yiwei from Renmin University said AIIB’s model reflects China’s cooperative approach. He stressed that AIIB empowers nations with long-term infrastructure rather than short-term aid. AIIB President Jin Liqun noted that collaboration among large and small members drives the bank’s progress. He said the institution offers not just financing, but also essential development expertise.
By comparison, by 2024, AIIB had helped build 51,000 kilometers of transport infrastructure and reached over 410 million people. It had added 21.3 gigawatts of renewable energy and cut 30 million tons of carbon emissions annually. Carl Fey of BI Norwegian Business School said AIIB has raised living standards in underdeveloped regions. He added that the bank’s investments remain critical as traditional donors reduce foreign aid.
Looking ahead, AIIB strengthens global partnerships by focusing on green energy, digital growth, and artificial intelligence. These priorities match the meeting’s agenda on connectivity, private capital, and sustainable urban development. Fey said AIIB uses China’s technological expertise to help other countries with green transitions. Consequently, these efforts aim to support developing nations with long-term, self-sufficient growth.
In conclusion, in 2024, the bank approved 8.4 billion dollars for 51 infrastructure and development projects. These included water, energy, transportation, digital systems, and social services. Wang noted that AIIB differs from older Western-led banks. Instead of focusing on charity, it supports strategic investments in real economic challenges. Its innovation-driven model helps developing nations build resilience. Through sustainable investment and global collaboration, AIIB strengthens global partnerships and drives meaningful progress across the developing world.
