Core Insights - The "Belt and Road" initiative serves as a dual strategic measure for China's internal and external development, aiming to reduce the economic gap between coastal and inland regions while promoting mutual benefits with over 100 countries [1][2] Geographical and Economic Analysis - Asia and Europe together account for 60% of global GDP, international trade, and population, providing a natural condition for economic integration [1] - The historical dominance of maritime economies has led to the prosperity of China's coastal areas while inland cities along the Silk Road have declined [1] Infrastructure Development - The construction of rail and road corridors in multiple directions is crucial for connecting Asia and Eurasia, thereby addressing the economic disparity between coastal and inland regions [2] - Major airports in central and western cities like Zhengzhou, Xi'an, Chengdu, and Chongqing have achieved significant infrastructure development, capable of handling 50 million to 100 million passengers annually [2] Industry Growth and Trade - Xi'an has developed an integrated circuit industry, while Chongqing produces one-third of the world's laptops, indicating a positive interaction between airport development and high-value industries [3] - China's service trade currently constitutes only 14% of total trade, compared to the global average of 25%, highlighting the need for growth in this sector to become a trade powerhouse [3] Role of Air Transport - Air transport is increasingly vital for driving industrial and urban upgrades in inland regions, with large airports acting as hubs for regional development [4] - The experience of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area in airport logistics can serve as a model for the future development of the four major airports in central and western China [4] Future Trade Dynamics - Currently, 80%-90% of the $4 trillion trade between Europe and Asia is conducted through China's coastal ports, but this is expected to shift significantly in 20 years, with half of the trade volume potentially moving through inland rail or road transport [4]