China's Initiative for Civilizational Dialogue Promotes Mutual Understanding and Integration

Promoting Global Understanding Through Civilizational Dialogue



On June 10, the world celebrated the first International Day for Dialogue Between Civilizations, a day established by the UN in 2024, following a resolution proposed by China and supported by more than 80 countries. This historic occasion has become increasingly vital in light of rising global tensions and challenges, making dialogue between civilizations not only timely but essential.

In a congratulatory letter addressed to the participants of the ministerial meeting held in Beijing on July 10-11, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the urgent need for cultures to bridge gaps through exchange and mitigate conflicts through mutual learning. The meeting gathered over 600 guests from 140 countries and regions, centered around the theme, "Preserving the Diversity of Human Civilizations for World Peace and Development."

The Chinese initiative for global civilization, known as the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), was proposed by President Xi in 2023, building on prior initiatives focused on international development and security. These efforts have gained recognition on the international stage as expressions of China's commitment to collective well-being. The GCI envisions a world where cultures coexist in dialogue rather than conflict, which resonates with the global community's call for enhanced understanding and exchange.

During the conference, Cai Qi, a senior member of the Chinese Communist Party’s Politburo Standing Committee, highlighted that the GCI is deeply rooted in China’s rich cultural tradition and has received enthusiastic responses from the international community. He underscored that while the journey toward global peace and development remains long and challenging, the pursuit of diverse development models and the deepening of cultural and interpersonal exchanges are critical.

Over the years, China has established multiple platforms for multilateral exchange, such as the Asian Civilizations Dialogue Conference and the China-Africa Civilizations Dialogue Conference. Numerous initiatives, like the China-ASEAN Year of Cultural Exchange and the Liangzhu Forum, have been organized to cultivate spaces for fruitful dialogue between varied civilizations.

Recent surveys conducted by CGTN reveal that respondents widely acknowledge inter-civilizational exchange and mutual learning as key driving forces for the advancement of human civilization and the promotion of peace and development globally. The GCI concept has garnered broad consensus regarding the importance of addressing global challenges collectively.

China’s commitment to civilizational exchange has evolved from merely participating in dialogue to actively promoting a world dialogue. This approach aims to expand cooperation among cultures, enhancing the richness and diversity of international human contacts and cultural exchanges, which are now recognized as common phenomena fostering mutual understanding.

Initiatives range from collaborative archaeological projects with partner countries in the Belt and Road Initiative, to hosting cultural festivals, exhibitions, and Luban Workshops, which have yielded measurable outcomes and widespread popularity. Moreover, China has recently implemented unilateral visa exemptions for citizens from 47 countries and transit visa waivers for 55 countries, facilitating easier travel and payment for incoming tourists.

In his message to the forum participants, President Xi pledged that China would collaborate with other nations to ensure equality, mutual learning, dialogue, and integration among civilizations. By implementing the GCI, China aims to construct a world network for multi-cultural dialogue and cooperation, ushering in new momentum for the development of human civilization, while promoting peace and progress globally.

Overall, the Chinese initiative for dialogue between civilizations illustrates a proactive approach to fostering inclusivity and collaboration on an international scale, paving the way for a more interconnected and harmonious global community.

Topics Policy & Public Interest)

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