BEIJING -- President Xi Jinping sent a letter to congratulate the inauguration of the Belt and Road Studies Network (BRSN) on Wednesday.

Xi said the development of history, prosperity of civilizations, and progress of humanity are closely connected with the guidance of advanced ideas.

Noting that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) originates in China, but belongs to the world, Xi said the initiative has become an open and inclusive platform for international cooperation and popular global public goods, thanks to the concerted efforts of all parties.

Xi said think tanks are an important force in the joint pursuit of the BRI, adding that exchanges and cooperation among think tanks help deepen mutual trust, build consensus, and advance the joint pursuit of the BRI towards higher levels.

Xi stressed that the establishment of the BRSN provides an important platform for think tanks of all countries to enhance exchanges of ideas and offer consulting services to policy-making.

Xi expressed the hope for the BRSN to deepen academic exchanges and produce more high-quality research results to contribute to making solid progress in the joint development of the BRI and building a community with a shared future for humanity.