The Belt and Road Initiative is more than just building roads and railways. It is about building connectivity that leads to peace, prosperity, openness and development for all, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai said on Thursday.

"China is ready to work with all parties, including the US, to translate these grand ideas into reality," Cui said at a meeting of prominent Chinese-Americans.

"We are encouraged by the positive response from the international community to the success of the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation," Cui said of the meeting that concluded on Monday in Beijing.