Marking the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, a group of students from Beijing Foreign Studies University visited Croatia’s Marco Polo Center to retrace the legendary explorer’s journey along the Silk Road.
Over 700 years ago, Marco Polo, at the age of 17, embarked on an epic voyage from the Adriatic Sea, venturing across the Silk Road to reach China. His travels bridged distant lands and cultures, opening new chapters in the history of East-West exchanges.
The students, passionate about fostering cross-cultural understanding, met with the center’s curator, Vicka Marelica, to delve deeper into Marco Polo’s legacy. The visit aimed to enhance their appreciation of historical ties and explore contemporary connections facilitated by the Belt and Road Initiative.
“Marco Polo’s journey symbolizes the enduring connection between Europe and Asia,” said Marelica. “It’s inspiring to see young people from China engaging with this history and looking towards future collaboration.”
The Belt and Road Initiative, proposed by China in 2013, seeks to promote economic cooperation and connectivity across Asia, Europe, and Africa. The students’ visit highlights how historical narratives like Marco Polo’s continue to influence modern efforts to strengthen international ties.
During their time at the center, the students explored exhibits detailing Marco Polo’s travels, examined ancient maps, and participated in discussions about the impact of the Silk Road on global trade and cultural exchange.
“Understanding the historical context of the Silk Road enriches our perspective on today’s globalized world,” said Li Wei, a student majoring in international relations. “It reinforces the importance of building bridges between nations.”
The trip also provided an opportunity for the students to experience Croatian culture firsthand. “Croatia’s rich history and its role in connecting East and West offer invaluable insights,” noted Zhang Min, another student participant.
The visit underscores the ongoing significance of educational exchanges in promoting mutual understanding and cooperation among future generations. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, initiatives like these play a crucial role in fostering global harmony.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
