Guangzhou and Aksu Highlight China's Cultural Heritage at Understanding China Conference

Cultural Heritage Takes Center Stage at the 2024 Understanding China Conference

Guangzhou recently hosted the 2024 Understanding China Conference, running from December 2-4, organized by the China Institute for Innovation & Development Strategy. This significant event was designed to celebrate China's rich cultural diversity, with a special focus on Aksu, a renowned cultural hub in Xinjiang. By collaborating with this vibrant city, Guangzhou demonstrated its commitment to cultural exchange and the preservation of heritage.

Aksu: The Heart of Qiuci Culture

Aksu, historically known as Qiuci, has long stood at the crossroads of civilizations along the famous Silk Road. This city was pivotal in fostering political, cultural, and trade exchanges, and it continues to be a source of inspiration through its music, dance, and vibrant art forms, including unique mural and grotto styles. Wu Hongzhan, Secretary of the Aksu Prefectural Party Committee, eloquently stated, "Aksu is the cradle of Qiuci culture, representing the harmonious blending of different civilizations."

During the conference, the seminar titled "Reviving Qiuci: Preserving and Passing Down Cultural Heritage under Chinese Modernization" brought together a host of experts and scholars dedicated to discussing the legacy of Qiuci culture. One of the standout presentations was the premiere of the Qiuci Grottoes Digital Exhibition, aimed at facilitating global dialogue and collaboration.

Empowering Young Voices

A key objective of this year's conference was to empower the youth in cultural storytelling and understanding. The "Understanding China New Youth Exploring Xinjiang – Aksu 2024 Short Video Conference" encouraged young creators to express their ideas and reflections on Aksu, enhancing cultural connections through digital media.

Yu Zhiyong, Vice President of Xinjiang’s Cultural and Museum Bureau, expressed that the significance of Qiuci goes beyond historical reference; it reflects the shared heritage of China's multi-ethnic nation, symbolizing the historical importance of the Silk Road. He added, "Qiuci offers a unique lens to understand China's vast history and rich cultural diversity."

Even former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome commended the initiative, remarking that the revival of Qiuci culture underscores China’s dedication to global cultural dialogue and mutual respect. He viewed this endeavor as part of a broader strategy to nurture shared progress through civilizational exchanges.

Bridging Cultural Gaps

The conference emphasized the transformative potential of youth as bridges between cultures. Through innovative activities like short video creation and immersive storytelling, young participants are encouraged to partake in cultural exchanges. This multifaceted approach provides fresh insights into China’s blend of tradition and modernity, highlighting how the younger generation contributes to a common global narrative.

By establishing platforms for these types of exchanges, the conference reinforced China's goal of dismantling cultural barriers, promoting East-West dialogue, and inspiring a new generation. The focus on preserving cultural heritage while embracing modernity showcases China’s ongoing commitment to fostering a rich cultural mosaic, one actively shaped by today’s youth.

Conclusion

As the 2024 Understanding China Conference concluded, it was clear that events like these play a crucial role in reinforcing cultural connections and mutual understanding. The collaborative efforts between Guangzhou and Aksu, along with the vibrant discussions and creative initiatives, are testaments to the enduring importance of cultural heritage in our rapidly changing world.