Shahbaz Khan, the Director of the UNESCO Beijing Office, has commended China’s efforts in promoting global cultural understanding and cooperation through initiatives like the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Emphasizing Cooperation Over Competition
During an interview, Khan highlighted that China possesses the second-largest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites, just behind Italy. However, he emphasized that heritage preservation is not about competition among nations but about collective human heritage. “These heritage sites belong to everyone in the world,” he stated. Khan praised China’s desire to help other countries and to give space for their cultures and traditions, underscoring the importance of global civilization built on cooperation.
Global Civilization Initiative Aligns with UN Goals
Khan noted that the GCI, proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, aligns closely with the United Nations’ objectives of promoting inclusiveness and sustainable development. “We need to understand the global civilization in a very careful way from a perspective of inclusiveness,” he said. Khan emphasized that understanding and respecting different cultures are crucial for tackling global issues such as climate change, peace, and security. He also mentioned that UNESCO has been fostering intercultural dialogue for over 75 years, and China’s GCI supports this mission.
The Belt and Road Initiative Bridging Cultures
Discussing the Belt and Road Initiative, Khan described it as a significant effort in bringing nations together for shared prosperity and cultural exchange. He cited examples such as educational centers established in Sri Lanka and the Silk Roads initiative, which connects World Heritage sites along ancient trade routes. “The Belt and Road Initiative unites and brings cultures together, fostering better understanding,” he remarked.
Promoting Mutual Respect and Understanding
Khan stressed the importance of mutual respect and understanding among nations. He highlighted China’s continuous efforts to share its culture and technological know-how with other countries, aiming for collective advancement. “We need to build our businesses and new technologies, but at the same time, we need to remain human,” he said. Khan also shared insights from his experiences with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, noting how collaborations have strengthened friendships and cultural ties.
UNESCO’s Support for China’s Initiatives
Concluding his remarks, Khan reiterated UNESCO’s support for China’s initiatives that promote global civilization and cultural understanding. He expressed optimism that these efforts would contribute significantly to building a community with a shared future for humanity.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
