The 7th Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo (SRDICE) commenced on September 20, 2024, in Dunhuang, Gansu Province, under the theme "Implementing the Global Civilization Initiative, Deepening Exchanges and Mutual Learning among Civilizations." The event attracted over 14,000 guests from around the world, showcasing Dunhuang’s rich cultural heritage and fostering global cultural exchange and cooperation.
A Global Gathering for Cultural Exchange
The expo featured 18 activities across five main areas, including the opening ceremony, the Dunhuang Forum, cultural exhibitions, artistic performances, and investment promotions. High-profile guests from countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), international diplomats, and representatives of global organizations gathered to discuss the importance of cultural collaboration and shared learning among civilizations.
Dunhuang: A Historic Cultural Hub
Home to the UNESCO-listed Mogao Grottoes, Dunhuang has long been a symbol of cultural integration and artistic heritage. The Mogao Grottoes, with their exquisite murals and statues dating back to the fourth century, served as a key cultural hub on the ancient Silk Road. The expo provided a platform to highlight Dunhuang’s historical significance and promote its cultural treasures to a global audience.
High-Level Discussions and Forums
The Dunhuang Forum covered seven key topics, including Dunhuang studies, intangible cultural heritage protection, and China’s cooperation with Central and South Asia under the BRI. Experts and scholars engaged in in-depth discussions on innovation, cultural preservation, and sustainable development, setting a benchmark for the protection and promotion of cultural heritage in the region.
Showcasing Cultural Heritage and Creative Arts
The expo featured various exhibitions, such as the Dunhuang Academy’s achievement showcase, intangible culture exhibitions, and fine arts displays from the Silk Road and Dunhuang. A special Chinese-Uruguayan photography exhibition highlighted the global influence of Dunhuang’s cultural heritage.
Artistic Performances from Around the World
Large-scale performances, including the drama Thousand-Hand Thousand-Eye, and international cultural exchange concerts featured artists from the United States, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, and more. These events celebrated the rich artistic legacy of the Silk Road, bringing together diverse cultural expressions.
Promoting Economic and Social Development
The expo facilitated cooperation between domestic entrepreneurs, travel agencies, and international investors, focusing on cultural tourism and economic development. The signing of key projects in transportation, general aviation, car rental services, and cultural industries injected new vitality into the local economy, enhancing Gansu’s cultural and economic landscape.
Building Bridges for Global Cultural Integration
The SRDICE has become a crucial platform for promoting the spirit of the Silk Road and advancing cultural exchanges among BRI countries. He Xiaozu, deputy head of Gansu's culture and tourism department, emphasized that the expo aims to serve the BRI, showcase Chinese cultural confidence, and support economic and social development.
Through its rich array of forums, exhibitions, and performances, the expo not only celebrated the heritage of the Silk Road but also positioned Dunhuang as a vital center for international cultural dialogue and cooperation.
Looking Forward: Gansu’s Role in Global Cultural Exchange
Gansu Province, with its wealth of cultural resources and historical significance, is leveraging the SRDICE to boost its cultural tourism industry and attract global attention. The province aims to continue building on this foundation, enhancing its role as a key player in international cultural exchanges and contributing to the global cultural landscape.