China's "Belt and Road" initiative is expected to promote free trade agreement negotiations with countries along the routes, improving the flow of exports and imports, according to a former vice-commerce minister.

"FTA negotiations with three countries from Asia and Europe that are involved in the initiative are reaching the final stage, and we may see the results this year," said Wei Jianguo.

Wei, vice-chairman of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, a government think tank, spoke to China Daily in an exclusive interview.