#China #Global Civilizations #Cultural Heritage #Yangtze River #Chongqing

Sharing Wisdom of River Civilizations: 2025 Yangtze River Civilization Forum

On September 17, 2025, the vibrant city of Chongqing served as the backdrop for the renowned 2025 Yangtze River Civilization Forum, a significant event focusing on the theme "Bridging Rivers and Seas, Sharing Wisdom of Civilizations." The forum saw participation from distinguished experts and scholars from various countries including China, France, Egypt, the UK, Brazil, and Pakistan, facilitating a lively exchange of ideas and knowledge regarding the rich heritage and future of river civilizations.

Objectives and Discussions

The primary goal of the forum was to promote dialogue around the preservation and advancement of the Yangtze River civilization. Participants engaged in discussions that explored strategies for high-quality development along the Yangtze River Economic Belt, emphasizing the importance of mutual learning among the world’s major river civilizations. The forum acted as a springboard for new ideas and tangible strategies aimed at safeguarding cultural heritage while encouraging sustainable development practices.

During the main forum session, eight experts delivered thought-provoking speeches that addressed critical topics. Discussions highlighted the transition from industrial to ecological civilization, driven by innovative and sustainable productive forces. The speakers drew attention to the historical significance of the Yangtze River and how exchanges between different civilizations contributed to the early formation of states. The emphasis was on cultural continuity and fostering meaningful dialogue between civilizations, with participants deliberating on pathways to enhance the development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt.

Side Events and Cultural Activities

Alongside the main program, a variety of side events were organized, enriching the forum’s value and appeal. Highlights included the 2025 Longgupo Site Academic Seminar, which focused on archaeological and historical findings, and the World Great Rivers Concert, which celebrated the rich cultural tapestry of river-based civilizations.

Moreover, an intangible cultural heritage exhibition showcased the diverse traditions from the Yangtze River Basin, while a special exhibition titled "From Dunhuang to Dazu" illustrated the artistic transitions over centuries. A dazzling drone performance named "New Rhythm of Chongqing" captivated the audience, shedding light on the interactive potential of modern technology in cultural expression. Additionally, cultural exploration activities along the Yangtze River provided immersive experiences for participants, revealing the river’s historical and ecological significance.

Evolution of the Forum

Launched in 2023, the Yangtze River Civilization Forum has rapidly evolved into a key academic event approved by the central government. Its establishment as a permanent provincial-ministerial level forum emphasizes its unique commitment to celebrating the civilizations and cultures of the Yangtze River Basin. The first two sessions attracted considerable attention from over 200 experts associated with leading academic and cultural institutions nationwide. Several recommendations regarding the construction of the Yangtze River National Cultural Park and other cultural initiatives have been successfully initiated as policies since the forum’s inception.

The success of this year's event further solidifies the forum's status as a high-caliber academic gathering with national influence, characterized by collaborative efforts between central and local authorities. Notably, this year's edition extended its reach internationally, drawing experts from across the globe, thus reflecting the forum's commitment to fostering a broader cultural dialogue.

Conclusion

The 2025 Yangtze River Civilization Forum stands as a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of river civilizations and their interconnectedness with global cultural narratives. The discussions and insights shared during the forum not only contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage but also pave the way for sustainable development initiatives that can benefit future generations.

In conclusion, the event not only highlighted the rich history and vibrant cultures surrounding the Yangtze River but also exemplified how collaborative scholarly dialogues can shape sustainable paths forward for civilization’s future.

Photo Credit: iChongqing