Lawmakers from around the world witnessed firsthand how Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is revitalizing its cultural heritage during a visit to Shufu County's Folk Instrument Village this week. The delegation observed artisans crafting traditional Uygur instruments and heard performances blending centuries-old melodies with contemporary influences, part of the 2025 Legislators Forum for Friendly Exchanges hosted in China.
"Seeing how local communities balance preservation with innovation gives me practical models to discuss back home," said a European parliamentarian, echoing sentiments from counterparts across Africa and Southeast Asia. The village's approach – combining government-supported cultural programs with grassroots entrepreneurship – has sparked discussions about sustainable heritage management strategies.
Organizers emphasized the forum's role in facilitating cross-cultural dialogue, with over 60 legislators from 28 countries and regions participating. The event comes as China intensifies efforts to showcase Xinjiang's social development following previous international scrutiny over cultural preservation policies.
Next week's agenda includes roundtables on legislative approaches to cultural sustainability, with Xinjiang's case study expected to feature prominently in discussions about balancing modernization with tradition.
