SHENZHEN — The Forum on Building up China's Cultural Strength 2026 opened this Thursday in Shenzhen, located in the Chinese mainland's Guangdong Province. The event has brought together leaders and experts to discuss the critical role of cultural legacy in consolidating the foundation for a stronger nation and advancing national rejuvenation.
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, delivered a keynote speech at the opening. During his address, the importance of cultural heritage was emphasized as a cornerstone for both the stability and the future trajectory of the nation.
Participants at the forum reached a consensus that a thriving culture is a defining hallmark of Chinese modernization. A significant portion of the discussions focused on the intersection of tradition and technology, with attendees calling for the strategic use of digital and intelligent technologies to invigorate cultural reform and foster a more vibrant and flourishing cultural ecosystem.
Beyond modernization, the forum highlighted the necessity of systematic preservation. Experts advocated for a "protection first" approach, emphasizing minimum intervention to ensure that cultural heritage is preserved in its most authentic form. Additionally, there was a strong call to expand international cultural and people-to-people exchanges, strengthening cooperation and understanding across borders.
Hosted by the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, the comprehensive event features a main forum and 11 specialized sub-forums. The gathering is scheduled to continue through Friday, promising further insights into how the Chinese mainland intends to leverage its rich cultural history to navigate the complexities of the modern era.
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Forum stresses cultural legacy's role in China's national rejuvenation
cgtn.com
