#Indonesia #Jakarta #Belt and Road Initiative #Sustainable Development #Global Compact

Jakarta Hosts Inaugural Global Business Summit

On May 25, 2025, Jakarta welcomed the inaugural Global Business Summit dedicated to the Belt and Road Infrastructure Investment aimed at achieving better business practices while contributing to a better world aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This significant event was conducted in collaboration with several renowned organizations, including the Government of Indonesia, the United Nations Global Compact, and multiple industry stakeholders.

Key Themes and Objectives

One of the primary intentions of the summit was to foster a sustainable approach towards infrastructure that aligns with the urgent needs dictated by climate change and global development. UN Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua, addressing the delegates, emphasized the necessity for creating "low-carbon, resilient, and universally accessible infrastructure". This vision was echoed by other speakers, including UN Assistant Secretary-General Sanda Ojiambo, who advocated for a set of strategic priorities that include adopting science-based decarbonization targets, promoting circular economy principles, engaging local communities, and effectively utilizing blended finance mechanisms.

Notably, Zhao Dong, Chairman of Xiamen Airlines, discussed the importance of aviation connectivity in advancing the so-called "Air Silk Road", highlighting the role of transport in enhancing trade and cooperation among Belt and Road countries.

Outcomes of the Summit

The summit resulted in various tangible outcomes that underscore its broader objectives. Among these was the launch of the report Transition Finance for Sustainable Development of Traditional Industries, which provides a framework for transition finance opportunities in different sectors. Furthermore, nine innovative cross-sector initiatives were introduced focusing on green energy transitions, enhancing the capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and fostering global health cooperation.

A critical element of the summit was the Joint Statement issued by the UNGC BRI for SDG Action Platform High-Level Steering Committee. This statement reaffirmed the BRI's potential to serve as a global public good, particularly concerning infrastructure investments and the promotion of business participation. The commitment revolved around several sectors, including healthcare, energy, telecommunications, construction, manufacturing, transportation, agriculture, and digital technologies.

The summit also comprised four expert roundtables that examined various pressing themes, including the importance of sustainable supply chains, innovations in healthcare, improving ESG [Environmental, Social, and Governance] compliance, and developing green industrial parks.

In celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Indonesia, the UN resident coordinator's office collaborated with UN Global Compact company participants to establish the Sino-Indonesia Corporate Communities Action Network. This initiative aims to create more sustainable communities while advancing the SDGs.

Business leaders present at the summit supported the establishment of a recurring business summit mechanism to ensure ongoing alignment of BRI projects with the SDGs. They emphasized the significance of maintaining international standards and adopting best practices from the private sector.

Closing Thoughts

As the inaugural Global Business Summit concluded, it left behind a unified call to action, accentuating a shared accountability in fostering an inclusive and climate-resilient future through enhanced BRI collaboration. This event has not only set the groundwork for future dialogues but has also established a new framework for public-private partnerships aimed at sustainable infrastructure development, paving the way for principled cooperation in the years to come.

In summary, the summit served as an important platform for dialogue, exchanging innovative solutions, and laying out cooperative pathways that align with the global agenda for sustainable development.