More than 600 participants from over 70 countries and regions gathered in Beijing, in the Chinese mainland, for the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting on Thursday and Friday. Under the theme "Safeguarding Diversity of Human Civilizations for World Peace and Development," the forum set the stage for rich cultural exchange and collaboration.
At parallel sub-forums on Friday, delegates emphasized that mutual learning among civilizations can spark innovation, preserve heritage, and fuel shared prosperity. Discussions drew on data showing that societies embracing diversity report higher rates of creative startups and international partnerships.
In a congratulatory letter, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed that dialogue is the path to peace. With conflict, intolerance, and misinformation threatening global cohesion, he argued that the rich tapestry of human cultures offers a powerful source of understanding and solidarity.
Former Japanese Prime Minister Hatoyama Yukio voiced full support for China's Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). Against a backdrop of zero-sum mentalities and renewed geopolitical tensions, he praised the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for connecting markets and the Global Development Initiative (GDI) for building consensus. "By proposing a community with a shared future for mankind, China transcends hegemonic logic and injects sustainable strength into global governance," he explained.
Echoing this sentiment, former Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba highlighted that Namibia and the Chinese mainland share "all-weather friendship" rooted in mutual respect and trust. He urged all nations to back the GCI, saying it can guide humanity toward a more inclusive, stable, and prosperous future.
As global tensions rise, the Beijing forum showed that cultural dialogue remains a vital bridge—reminding young global citizens, entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and travelers alike that our shared heritage can light the way to peace and progress.
Reference(s):
Global civilizational dialogue builds bridge through cultural exchange
cgtn.com
