#China #Cultural Heritage #World Internet Conference #Xi'an #Digitalization

WIC to Host Forum on Cultural Heritage Digitalization

The World Internet Conference (WIC) has formally announced a forthcoming forum to address cultural heritage digitalization, planned for September 16-17, 2025, in Xi'an, China. This significant event aims to explore innovative digital approaches to preserve and inherit cultural legacies from diverse civilizations.

During a press conference held in Beijing on August 26, 2025, WIC officials detailed the arrangements for the forum and its overarching themes. The event is set to take place under the banner: "Bridging History through Digitalization, Building Civilization with Intelligence." It will engage discussions centered around fundamental topics such as "Preservation and Inheritance," "Technology and Innovation," "Industry and Empowerment," and "Openness and Collaborative Governance."

Prominent figures in attendance included Ren Xianliang, the WIC's secretary-general, along with Sun Daguang from the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Shaanxi Provincial Committee, and Zhang Fenghu from the Cyberspace Administration of Xi'an. The event was chaired by Liang Hao, who serves as the executive deputy secretary-general of the WIC.

Ren emphasized the critical role that cultural heritage plays in reflecting the essence of various civilizations. He expressed that digital technology has emerged as a crucial asset in the protection and revitalization of these heritage sites. Hosting the forum in Xi'an—renowned for its historical significance—serves as a testament to global trends in digital civilization and aligns with the WIC's commitment to enhancing digital protections for cultural legacy.

In discussing the province's efforts, Sun underscored Shaanxi's long-standing dedication to preserving cultural heritage. He stated that the forum presents an invaluable opportunity for dialogue across multiple sectors, enabling the incorporation of collective knowledge to reach a wider consensus. By effectively intertwining culture with technology, Shaanxi envisions advancing its strategies for cultural heritage protection and fostering stringent international collaborations in digital endeavors.

Xi'an's strategy over the past few years has included revamping the city culturally and leveraging digital transformation to amplify the innovative development of its rich historical and cultural tapestry. Zhang affirmed that the forum will serve as a platform for the city to glean insights from international best practices and enhance cultural exchanges, thereby actively participating in the establishment of a shared future in cyberspace.

The forum anticipates the participation of high-level representatives from international organizations, government officials, foreign ambassadors in China, leaders from significant cultural enterprises, and esteemed scholars. The schedule includes several essential events, such as:

• - An exhibition showcasing exceptional digitalized cultural heritage projects
• - A meeting convened by the WIC's working group focused on cultural heritage digitalization
• - A training program facilitated by the WIC Digital Academy
• - The introduction of the WIC Cultural Heritage Digitalization Case Collection

These activities promise to create an enriching global stage for exchanges and collaboration in the realm of cultural heritage digitalization, fostering an environment of learning and cooperation among diverse cultures and communities.

In conclusion, the 2025 WIC Cultural Heritage Digitalization Forum stands as a pivotal occasion that reflects current global efforts in the digital preservation of culture while encouraging dialogue and responsibility concerning our shared legacies.