The city of Chengdu, located in Southwest China’s Sichuan Province, recently became a hub of international cultural exchange as it played host to the first Golden Panda International Cultural Forum. The event was not only a testament to the increasing importance of global collaboration, but also a showcase of art’s power to bridge civilizations and connect people.
Erik Solheim, a former under-secretary-general of the United Nations, emphasized the need for global cooperation in facing 21st-century challenges. Among these challenges are the creation of an ecological civilization, climate change mitigation, nature conservation, and post-pandemic economic revitalization. Solheim made a profound appeal, calling for a strengthening of ties with China through dialogue among civilizations. He ardently championed the idea of increased cooperation, urging the global community to avoid divisive discourses on decoupling.
This call resonated with the sentiments shared by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. Earlier this year, Jinping introduced the Global Civilization Initiative, highlighting the significance of different civilizations’ tolerance, coexistence, and mutual learning. Jinping, also serving as China’s president, expressed that the shared future of countries is intertwined, making such dialogue and understanding crucial.
Former UNESCO director-general, Irina Bokova, drew attention to the historic Silk Road, stretching from Xi’an to Venice. This ancient route, passing through cities like Baghdad, Samarkand, and Palmyra, stands as a testament to the mingling and mutual influence of great civilizations. Bokova praised the Global Civilization Initiative for upholding such a legacy and strengthening China’s commitment to fostering a harmonious world.
Similarly, Nabil Fahmy, former Foreign Minister of Egypt, underscored the importance of understanding not just global perspectives, but the reasons behind them. He shared these thoughts during his speech on the significance of promoting global peace through cultural exchange.
Art was a prominent theme, with Wu Weishan, a renowned sculpture artist and curator, unveiling sculptures that symbolize the dialogue between China and foreign nations. One striking piece depicts a conversation between Leonardo da Vinci and modern Chinese artist Qi Baishi, representing a meeting of Eastern and Western artistic minds. Another significant work showcases a dialogue between Confucius and Socrates, standing proudly in Athens.
Former Thai Prime Minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva, after a tour in the panda habitats of Sichuan, eloquently drew a parallel between the efforts to protect pandas and the need for international trust and peace.
The forum also highlighted the universal language of film. Stanley Tong, a notable Hong Kong director and producer, discussed cinema’s role in connecting cultures and promoting Chinese stories globally, attributing much of this success to stars like Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li.
The forum culminated in the Golden Panda Awards, honoring cinematic and television achievements. Notable winners included Nahuel Pérez Biscayart for “Persian Lessons”, Penelope Cruz for “Parallel Mothers”, and the film “Jojo Rabbit”. The US television series “1923” also garnered acclaim, and a documentary detailing the collaboration between China and the US on panda conservation titled “The Miracle Panda” was celebrated.
In essence, the Golden Panda International Cultural Forum was a beacon of hope for a future where art, understanding, and cooperation come together to address global challenges.
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