Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven technologies and AI-themed exhibits are dominating the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) that officially opened in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province on Thursday, ensuring visitors of a brighter and smarter future.
For the first time, the five-day event has set up an international cultural trade exhibition, with an exhibition area spanning 20,000 square meters.
The main venue consists of eight pavilions focused on areas such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area's cultural industry innovation, the integration of culture and tourism, gaming and e-sports, and Guochao, also known as Chinese trends or "China chic".
A special exhibition of "Cultural and Creative China" has been set up at the fair to showcase the latest achievements in promoting the creative transformation and innovative development of fine traditional Chinese culture.
Visitors can have an immersive experience at the historical sites across China without personally visiting them via the cutting-edge AI applications.
The state-of-the-art technologies can also "revive" the ancient people who passed away thousands of years ago, helping visitors understand more about history and civilizations through the analysis of available data. Additionally, people can use AI to create interactive experiences and simulated conversations with the historical figures.
An AI-controlled mouse that can listen to users' voice commands and convert them into text wows visitors. Exhibitors say the tool is expected to be a game-changer to make our jobs more convenient and efficient.
According to the organizers, the event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display.
More than 300 overseas exhibitors from 60 countries and regions are participating in the fair.
Established in 2004, the fair has become a leading cultural event in China and an important platform to assist the Chinese culture in going global.
AI-themed exhibits prominent at int'l cultural industries fair
On his second official visit to China, Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu Charlot Salwai expressed admiration for China's remarkable ability to balance preserving its cultural heritage with embracing innovative transformation.
Salwai paid an official visit to China from July 7 to 12. During his trip, he toured the southern province of Guangdong and explored the megacities of Beijing and Shanghai. His visit included tours of high-tech companies, a ride on a high-speed train, and a performance of traditional Cantonese opera.
In an interview with China Central Television Network (CCTV) aired on Friday, Salwai recounted his journey starting with a warm welcome that included enjoying Beijing Roast Duck, also known as Peking Duck -- a culinary delight introduced to him by the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu.
"Many had to say. Peking Duck. Because we had it here on our arrival, so it was very tasty. And I understand that the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu brought us to one of the traditional restaurants, small but beautiful," he said. The prime minister sees China's preservation of its culture as a vital lesson in understanding one's roots and the journey to the present day, acknowledging China's efforts to integrate cultural preservation with modernization.
"It's going to be my second official visit to China. I'm always impressed to see big changes and especially innovations made by China and especially the cities. Because a big impression is to see how China continues to maintain and keep its culture. Because I think it's the basis of everything -- to know where you come from and to understand where we are today. I feel that China is doing a lot to maintain its culture, but at the same time, doing, innovating to transform its culture,” Salwai said.
He also emphasized the importance of learning from China's sustainable development strategies.
"Today, it comes from a long way, some hardship, the government, and also the people of China. So, I'm impressed to see what is done, especially how China associates infrastructure development with nature. That's meant to keep, continue to keep the environment. It takes effort with the climate change by maintaining the ecosystem. I think it's something that, for a small country like Vanuatu, is important to learn. So, we are here. I'm here with my delegation to learn," Salwai said.
Vanuatu's PM commends China's cultural preservation, innovation amid fast growth
