Beijing ups security to ensure safety at Belt and Road Forum

World Today

On any given day, securing China’s bustling capital is a challenge. But when dozens of world leaders and dignitaries descend upon Beijing for the Belt and Road Forum, ensuring their safety requires careful coordination.

CGTN’s Rose Ruttenberg explains what it takes to secure one of the largest cities in the world for such a large diplomatic event.

Beijing’s streets can be jammed at almost any hour of the day. In an effort to clear them a bit, officials declared several days of holidays. They’ve also deployed more officers to keep traffic moving, and to catch anything that appears suspicious. The city’s fire department, part of Beijing’s public security agency, has set up dozens of command centers around the capital, and has put thousands of firefighters on the ready.

At the airport, more officers are shortening the waiting time. A series of checkpoints helps make a reinforced safety zone at the National Convention Center, which is hosting the Belt and Road Forum.  With the world watching, China knows it can’t afford any mistakes. The modern-day Silk Road will ultimately cut through some pretty rough and scary terrain. This is China’s chance to show: security comes first.