Meaningful cultural exchanges will foster understanding of different perspectives of cultural heritage, said an Indian proponent as the world celebrates the first International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations on Tuesday.
In an interview with China Global Television (CGTN), Khushi Shah, director of India's Khushtar Heritage Collective, emphasized the uplifting of common ideals among the world's diverse peoples.
"When we talk about dialogue between civilizations, we're not just referring to the historical connections, we are also talking about how deep-rooted cultures help uncover fundamental values of our civilizations, such as tolerance, human dignity, the pursuit of peace. All these values transcend the cultural boundaries. Through meaningful exchange, people can not only learn how to better articulate their beliefs, but they also learn how to listen to other people and have this sense of empathy towards different perspectives," Shah said.
In her assessment of dialogue between China and India, she noted that the two neighboring countries can continue to build on their shared histories.
"Both of them have deep-rooted cultural identities that [are] shaped by their geography, philosophy, trade and centuries of cultural interaction amongst each other. Their approach to policy, diplomacy and global engagement is shaped by their cultural confidence and resilience that they have to offer to the world," she said.
June 10th marks the first International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations of the United Nations. The day aims to promote mutual respect, dialogue among cultures, and global solidarity.
Cultural exchanges foster understanding of different perspectives of heritage: Indian expert
Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Saturday China is willing to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and advance the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane in the capital of Lesotho.
During the meeting, Wang congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence this year, and spoke highly of Lesotho government's efforts to prioritize economic development and steer the African country onto a path of sustainable growth. Since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024, the two sides have advanced cooperation under the 10 partnership action plans unveiled at the summit, successfully implementing a number of key projects to effectively promote Lesotho's development and revitalization, Wang said.
China stands ready to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and push for greater development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership, he added.
Calling on the two sides to firmly support each other, Wang said that China will accelerate the implementation of its zero-tariff policy for African countries, including Lesotho, expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation, facilitate broader access of Lesotho's specialty products to the Chinese market, and continue to support Lesotho's national development.
China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and acts of bullying, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, Wang said.
On his part, Matekane said during the meeting that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries, and expressed gratitude for China's valuable support for the development of African countries, including Lesotho.
Lesotho firmly adheres to the one-China principle and resolutely supports China in safeguarding its core interests, he said, noting that his country stands ready to strengthen strategic mutual trust with China, expand people-to-people exchanges, jointly implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, manufacturing and energy.
Matekane stressed that China's zero-tariff policy for African products will inject new impetus into Lesotho's development. He also expressed Lesotho's willingness to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges.
On the same day, Wang also held talks with Lejone Mpotjoana, minister of foreign affairs and international relations of Lesotho.
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
