Participants at the 11th Nishan Forum on World Civilizations praised the forum's vital role in promoting cross-cultural exchange on a large scale, emphasizing "civilizational dialogue" as essential for fostering global unity and peace.
The 11th Nishan Forum on World Civilizations kicked off on Wednesday in Qufu, the birthplace of prominent Chinese philosopher Confucius, in east China's Shandong Province.
With the theme of "Beauty in Diversity: Nurturing Understanding Among Civilizations for Global Modernization," the two-day forum has brought together over 560 guests from more than 70 countries and regions around the world to participate in various activities, including high-level interviews, keynote speeches, and parallel dialogues.
Speaking at the forum, the Secretary of the Shandong Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China, Lin Wu, emphasized Shandong's pivotal role as both the cradle of Confucian thought and a modern gateway for dialogue between East and West.
"By fully utilizing Shandong's advantages, we will collaborate with global partners to advance civilizational dialogue, celebrating diversity while safeguarding our shared cultural heritage. Together, we can build a more solid foundation for mutual learning and flourishing civilizations," said Lin.
Many participants view the forum as a beacon for cultural exchange and unity. Riccardo Pozzo, a professor at Tor Vergata University, underscored the unifying power of cultural heritage.
"This time it's about beauty, and it's about culture. It's about cultural heritage. And we believe that cultural heritage will unify the world and will be a premise for peace," said Pozzo.
Other attendees emphasized the importance of dialogue and connections among civilizations in fostering mutual understanding.
"I think it's really important to move from international relations to a civilizational dialogue. (In) International relations, you are usually involved in economic and cultural issues. But with the civilizational dialogue, you move to shared histories, to values, to family, to these different, humanizes the discourse. And so to move from a geopolitical to a geocultural dialogue is a wonderful thing," said Roger T. Ames, deputy director of the Academic Committee of Nishan Forum.
"I really enjoy looking at the connections between civilizations and the comparisons between them," said Benjamin W. Robers, associate professor at Durham University.
The forum organizers also showcased publications on Confucian wisdom, aiming to revitalize traditional Confucian culture with modern interpretations and expressions, thereby contributing to a global cultural consensus on this ancient philosophy.
World Civilizations Forum in east China facilitates cross-cultural dialogue
World Civilizations Forum in east China facilitates cross-cultural dialogue
World Civilizations Forum in east China facilitates cross-cultural dialogue
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
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
