(Xinhua) 08:57, September 23, 2026
Guests attend the main forum of the 2026 Beijing Culture Forum in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 22, 2026. (Xinhua/Chen Yehua)
BEIJING, Sept. 22 (Xinhua) — The 2026 Beijing Culture Forum opened in the Chinese capital on Tuesday, bringing together more than 600 guests from 44 countries and regions to discuss cultural heritage protection and mutual learning among civilizations.
Li Shulei, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, attended the event and delivered a keynote speech.
Participants from China and abroad noted that the China-proposed Global Civilization Initiative, along with efforts to promote international cooperation in cultural heritage, is significant for advancing cultural heritage endeavors globally.
They emphasized that cultural heritage is humanity’s shared asset, and its preservation and responsible use are vital for the continuity of civilization and sustainable development.
There was a strong call for commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage, adhering to principles of protection, rational use, and minimal intervention in conservation efforts.
Participants advocated for increased sharing of experiences in cultural heritage protection, including surveys, legal frameworks, public participation, and technology support, as well as expanded international cooperation in archaeological projects and museum exchanges.
They stressed the need to improve global governance in cultural heritage protection and to promote cooperation in the Global South.
The forum, hosted by several Chinese governmental bodies, highlights Beijing’s rich history of over 3,000 years and its status as a capital for more than 870 years, being home to numerous World Heritage sites.
This annual event aligns with China’s ongoing efforts to foster international cultural exchanges and cooperation through various initiatives, including the Global Civilization Initiative proposed in 2023.
(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
