In a recent gathering of international urban leaders, the Global Mayors Dialogue held in the scenic city of Huangshan served as a vital platform for exchanging experiences on the management and development of ancient cities. Among the participants was Jelena Medakovic, the Secretary of Culture of Belgrade, who engaged with urban managers from around the world to discuss the intersection of history and modernization.
During an interview with CGTN, Medakovic reflected on Belgrade's own deep historical roots, noting that the city possesses nearly 8,000 years of history and is currently experiencing a period of rapid development. This shared experience of balancing growth with preservation made the dialogue in Huangshan particularly resonant.
Medakovic expressed her admiration for the dynamic growth observed across the Chinese mainland. She remarked on the ubiquitous presence of Chinese brands, particularly within the automotive sector, describing the experience of seeing the latest innovations on the streets as being "like a car fair."
Beyond industrial success, the Belgrade official highlighted the exemplary nature of the Chinese mainland's approach to cultural preservation. She praised the way modern architecture integrates traditional elements, ensuring that progress does not come at the cost of identity. Furthermore, she emphasized that China's practices in the protection of intangible cultural heritage are exemplary and offer valuable lessons for countries worldwide seeking to safeguard their own legacies.
Reference(s):
China's heritage protection is exemplary: Global Mayor's Dialogue
cgtn.com
