The compass, gunpowder, papermaking, and printing – the Four Great Inventions of ancient China had a huge impact on human civilization. Today, the Middle Kingdom continues to innovate and lead the world in many areas – the Silk Road Research Institute of Beijing Foreign Studies University recently sought the thoughts of teenagers from more than 20 Belt and Road countries as to what they thought what China's four great modern inventions are.

China high-speed rail, Alipay, public sharing bikes and online payment proved the top hits among those surveyed.

The list of the four great new inventions of China was created by teenagers from more than 20 Belt and Road countries. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"I needn't bring my wallet with me, only my phone."

"Take-out and express service is really fast!"

"High-speed rail is incredible."