On 6th April, 2017, Dr. Wang Hao gave a speech in “Tsinghua Global Forum” and explained “the Belt and Road” water problems. Dr. Wang was visiting Tsinghua University as the chief expert of the Institute of Global Development, Tsinghua University and deputy director of the Maritime Silk Road Research Center.
Dr. Wang introduced the Belt and Road countries’ water status. Currently, water problems, such as resource deficiency, infrastructure constraint, insufficient capacity and strong demand etc., have become one of the main bottlenecks in the economic development of coastal countries. The overall situation has improved significantly in recent years, but there are still many problems. Along with the increase of population, urbanization and rapid economic development, the coastal countries of the Maritime Silk Road will face increasing pressure on water resources.
Dr. Wang pointed out that China’s experience and capability can help improve the capabilities of countries along the Belt and Road. Countries along the route should focus on two points: strengthening the top-level design and grasping the wooden pail. Taken China - Indonesia water security cooperation as an example, Dr. Wang explained that comparative advantages of coastal countries can be quickly converted to driving force of economic growth. China's experience in water resources management will help to achieve this goal.
After that, Dr. Wang Hao, Dr. Zheng Lielie and Prof. Ni Guangheng discussed with students on water resource problems of “the Belt and Road” and its solutions.
