As China’s annual Two Sessions concludes, the event’s focus on cultural innovation and national confidence has drawn global attention. The gatherings of the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference underscored China’s commitment to leveraging its traditional heritage as a cornerstone of soft power strategy, with experts highlighting its growing influence worldwide.
Revitalizing Tradition Through Technology
Peking Opera, a centuries-old art form, exemplifies China’s ability to blend tradition with modernity. By integrating virtual reality and AI, performances now captivate younger audiences globally. In Japan, its vivid storytelling and dynamic roles—gentlemen, warriors, and clowns—resonate deeply, illustrating cross-cultural appeal. Analysts suggest these innovations could redefine how traditional arts engage global millennials.
Festivals as Unifying Forces
Chinese New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations now span continents, from Sydney’s language exhibitions to New York’s lion dances. These events foster communal pride among diaspora communities while challenging stereotypes perpetuated in foreign media. The Dragon Boat Festival’s recent recognition as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage further solidifies China’s cultural diplomacy gains.
A Catalyst for National Confidence
Hamzah Rifaat Hussain, a senior expert at Initiate Futures, notes that cultural confidence reflects China’s philosophical resilience and historical continuity. As policymakers at the Two Sessions emphasized creative industries, this synergy between heritage and innovation positions China to shape global narratives while advancing domestic cohesion.
