UK-based consulting engineer Arup has signed two non-binding agreements with Chinese contractors in hopes of getting work on the back of China’s ambitious One Belt, One Road (OBOR) strategy.
Arup signed memoranda of understanding, or MOUs, with China Overseas Engineering Group Co (COVEC), and Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co. Ltd (STEC) during UK Prime Minister Theresa May’s trip to China at the beginning of February.
OBOR is China’s grand plan to promote connectivity between China, Asia and through to Europe, and Arup said the MoUs will "help unlock" opportunities to work on infrastructure along the routes.
The expressions of intent were signed by Arup chairman Gregory Hodkinson and Arup’s East Asia chairman, Michael Kwok.
"The MOUs underline the strategic importance of the Belt & Road Initiative, not just for Arup and our Chinese partners, but for the many countries along these trade corridors who will benefit from better connectivity between nations and economic blocs," said Hodkinson.
Image: Map by McKinsey shows approximate overland and sea routes comprising China’s One Belt, One Road strategy (McKinsey)
