China's city of Xi'an, the eastern starting point of the ancient Silk Road, held a cultural exchange activity Monday evening.
It was one of the activities of the Belt and Road Forum for International Think Tank Cooperation and the Second Silk Road (Xi'an) International Communication Forum.
Around 300 former politicians, think tank experts, media organization leaders and public figures were invited to join the forum held in Xi'an, capital city of northwest China's Shaanxi Province.
Named "Chang'an Night Gala", the event showed traditional etiquette of the Tang Dynasty (618-907), when Xi'an was called Chang'an.
"We visited several places in Xi'an yesterday. What impressed me most were the Terracotta Warriors, which made me feel like traveling to the ancient times of China. I saw their appearances both before and after restoration. Through them, I sensed the strength of China," said Juliet Ebele Nwekeorji, a guest from Nigeria.
"This is my first time to Xi'an. It has been a very, very wonderful experience. I've learnt so many new things. I appreciate deeply the Chinese commitment to preserving their culture," said Petra Fiona, a guest from Antigua and Barbuda.
Xi'an, a city founded more than 3,100 years ago, served as the capital for 13 dynasties in Chinese history.
This is also the place where Chinese envoy Zhang Qian began his journey to the Western regions during the Western Han Dynasty (202 B.C.- A.D. 25). Zhang's pioneering expedition opened up a route that later became the ancient Silk Road.
Ancient Silk Road city holds cultural exchange event
