Int'l Silk Road cultural expo opens in Dunhuang, promotes global cultural exchanges

The 7th Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo opened on Saturday in Dunhuang City of Gansu Province, northwest China, attracting over 1,400 guests from more than 40 countries, regions and international organizations to share insights on communication and cultural exchanges between different civilizations.

As an economic and cultural hub of the ancient Silk Road, Dunhuang is renowned for its UNESCO-listed Mogao Grottoes, representing the fusion of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, and its cultural significance where East meets West.

Delegations have gathered to explore Dunhuang's culture and world heritage, enhance cultural cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, and facilitate exchanges between different civilizations.

The exposition also features diverse activities, including forums on Dunhuang Studies, cultural exhibitions, art performances, and business fairs.

Aligning with the Belt and Road Initiative that was proposed in 2013, the expo was first held in 2016 with an aim to promote cultural exchanges and economic cooperation among countries along the Belt and Road.

To date, the exposition has attracted over 20 global leaders and more than 6,000 delegates from over 120 countries and regions to participate.

All of the inbound exhibits for the upcoming 21st China-ASEAN Expo have arrived at the expo venue Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center on Saturday.

The event is scheduled to be held from Sept 24 to 28 in Nanning City of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

The customs authority has facilitated the clearance and entrance of these exhibits by setting up clearance channels dedicated for the expo and simplifying the procedures.

This year, the value of goods from ten ASEAN countries has increased 2.3 times compared to last year. They are mainly specialty foods, household items, and building materials.