At the Himalayan Consensus Summit 2018 on Saturday, representatives were finding ways to understand how the Belt and Road Initiative of China and the Act East policy of India could have more in common and more synergy than difference.

Think tank representatives from China and South Asian countries gathered in the Nepalese capital Kathmandu on Friday and Saturday for a summit on consensus-building, discussing environmental protection and connectivity for sustainable development.

Laurence Brahm, founding director of the think tank Himalayan Consensus Institute, said he thought the Himalayas, shared by China and South Asia, is a region of great challenges and also opportunities.

AI robot Sophia shared with all participants her views on the main topics and made a call for closer cooperation among Asian nations.

Charhar’s senior consultant Huang Youyi said if China and South Asian nations can agree on the common goal of peace and development, they can work together to map out the best routes for regional development.

The summit, now in its third year, attracted more than 70 representatives from international and regional organizations, think tanks, and businesses. It aims to build consensus among key stakeholders in the Himalayan area over preserving the environment and boosting connectivity across south Asia and beyond.