China’s global trade project

<p><span style="line-height: 1.42857;">The Chinese government is investing tens of billions of dollars as part of an ambitious economic plan to rebuild ports, roads and rail networks.</span><br></p><p>China's President Xi Jinping has pledged $124bn (£96bn) for the scheme, known as the Belt and Road initiative.</p><p>The plan, which aims to expand trade links between Asia, Africa, Europe and beyond, was first unveiled in 2013.</p><p>Part of the massive funding boost, which is aimed at strengthening China's links with its trading partners, includes 60bn yuan ($9bn; £7bn) in aid to developing countries and international institutions that form part of the Belt and Road project.</p><p>President Xi used his speech to assure Western diplomats that the plan, described as the new Silk Road, is not simply an attempt to promote Chinese influence globally.</p>