#China #Yangtze River #Chongqing #River Civilization

The Yangtze River Civilization Forum 2025

On September 17, 2025, the highly anticipated Yangtze River Civilization Forum took place in Chongqing, China, marked by its theme, "Bridging Rivers and Seas, Sharing Wisdom of Civilizations." The event attracted esteemed scholars and experts from various countries, all dedicated to discussing critical issues surrounding the Yangtze River's civilization, its cultural heritage, and sustainable development. The forum served as an invaluable platform for generating new ideas, consolidating practical solutions, and fostering cooperative efforts to protect and promote cultural heritage.

Key Discussions and Insights

During the main forum, eight prominent experts took center stage with enlightening speeches that addressed paramount topics. These included the transition from an industrial society to an ecological civilization driven by innovative productive forces, the historical significance of the Yangtze River's civilization, and the impact of civilizational exchanges on early statehood formations. The discourse emphasized the importance of cultural continuity and the deepening dialogue between different civilizations. Experts passionately discussed pathways to enhance the high-quality development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt while intensifying exchanges among river civilizations worldwide.

A Diverse Program of Activities

Alongside the main summit, a series of comprehensive supplementary activities were organized. These included the 2025 Longgupo Site Academic Seminar, the World Great Rivers Concert, and an exhibition focusing on the intangible cultural heritage of the Yangtze River Basin. A standout feature was the special exhibition titled “From Dunhuang to Dazu” and a captivating drone display named “New Rhythm of Chongqing.” Cultural exploration activities along the Yangtze River further enriched the experience for participants, allowing them to engage deeply with the region's cultural wealth.

A Historical Context

Chongqing initiated the first Yangtze River Civilization Forum in 2023, with the following year marking its elevation to a provincial-level permanent event by approval from the central government. This designation makes it the sole forum dedicated to the civilizations and cultures along the Yangtze River. The inaugural sessions witnessed participation from over 200 experts from leading academic and cultural institutions nationwide. Many proposed measures for the construction of the Yangtze River National Cultural Park and related cultural productions have already been translated into actionable initiatives.

Building on the success of prior forums, the 2025 edition has emerged as a high-profile academic event with a national influence, characterized by “central-local coordination and regional cooperation.” This year's forum notably expanded its international scope, attracting high-caliber participants and presenting a broader range of activities compared to its predecessors.

Conclusion

As the Yangtze River continues to be a source of cultural richness and historical significance, the Yangtze River Civilization Forum 2025 not only reinforced the commitment to preserving its legacy but also highlighted the need for sustainable development across river civilizations. With a diverse agenda and involvement from international experts, this forum has positioned itself as a cornerstone for future discussions, ensuring that the wisdom of civilizations flows as freely as the waters of the Yangtze itself.