He said he hoped the studies network will deepen academic exchanges, produce high-quality research and therefore contribute as well to the development of the BRI and the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.

Xi's remarks were welcomed by Wang Huiyao, the founder and president of the Center for China and Globalization, a Beijing-based independent think tank that is one of the members of the new network.

"It makes sense to have think tanks involved in the Belt and Road, and this network involves not just those from China but from many other countries also," he said.

"They all can bring in ideas that will reduce the possibility of confusion over certain issues and help policymakers make informed decisions."