Since the Chinese mainland hosted its first China-Central Asia Summit in Xi’an in May 2023, ties with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan have entered a new era. The second summit in Astana from June 16–18 deepened that spirit, and cultural relics now stand center stage as symbols of our shared Silk Road heritage.
AI Breathes New Life into Ancient Treasures
In CGTN’s When Relics Speak series, cutting-edge AI transforms silent artifacts into storytellers. By scanning, reconstructing and animating six iconic relics—from the Chinese mainland’s galloping bronze horse to Kazakhstan’s Golden Man, Kyrgyzstan’s Balbals, Tajikistan’s vibrant Panjakent murals, a sphinx-shaped pendant unearthed in Uzbekistan and rhytons from both Turkmenistan’s Old Nisa and the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in the Chinese mainland—the series retraces their origins and chronicles centuries of exchange.
People-to-People Power
Technology sets the stage, but it’s the spirit of human connection that truly gives these relics a voice. For generations, Silk Road merchants, scholars and travelers exchanged ideas, art and faith. Today, scholars collaborate across borders, digital nomads explore historic routes and young creators remix ancient motifs into modern design.
Heritage Meets Modern Cooperation
Under the Belt and Road Initiative, cultural exchange has become a pillar of high-quality development. Virtual exhibitions invite global audiences—over a million viewers to date—to step inside Silk Road sites. Artisans in Central Asia and the Chinese mainland are reviving traditional crafts, fueling sustainable tourism and forging new economic opportunities.
Echoes of the Past, Visions for the Future
Guided by the China-Central Asia spirit of mutual respect, trust, benefit and assistance, relics continue to tell fresh stories. As cooperation deepens, the voices of the past will resonate even more clearly, inspiring a generation of travelers, entrepreneurs and changemakers to carry the Silk Road legacy forward.
Which relic’s AI-powered journey inspires you the most? Share your thoughts below.
Reference(s):
Behind the scenes: What gives voice to China-Central Asia relics?
cgtn.com
