China’s Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation will kick off in the capital Beijing on May 14, another large-scale “home diplomacy” event for the country after the Hangzhou G20 Summit in 2016.

Ahead of the much anticipated event, CGTN spoke to Vice Foreign Minister Li Baodong, who leads the forum’s preparatory committee. Li said preparations for the forum are in full swing, and he is inviting participants to discuss the development of the Belt and Road Initiative.

He also noted that leaders from 29 countries are confirmed to attend the roundtable summit at the forum. The two-day meeting will see the attendance of heads and representatives from more than 130 countries and 70 international organizations.

Li said the agenda of the Belt and Road Forum this year covers all the participant countries and regions, making it diversified, inclusive and representative.

The landmark forum is expected to bring the world fresh ideas and suggestions on economy and trade, while making great contributions to peace and development, according to the vice-minister.