A rich tapestry of cultures

The Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo a key vehicle for Gansu province to promote Chinese treasures

Gansu province in Northwest China once again stands on an important stage as the eighth Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo is to be held in Dunhuang city from Saturday to Monday. As a comprehensive international expo themed around cultural exchange and cooperation within the Belt and Road Initiative, the event has facilitated BRI co-development, promoted Dunhuang culture and increased Chinese cultural influence.

He Xiaozu, director of the Gansu provincial culture and tourism department, said: "Gansu has successively held seven sessions of the Dunhuang cultural expo. Nearly 10,000 guests from more than 120 countries and regions have participated in the event, which featured a series of cultural exchange activities such as forums, exhibitions, and performances. It has played an important role in promoting cultural integration, thought exchange and emotional connection among people of the countries and regions involved in the BRI, and also in telling China's stories well and expanding the influence of Chinese traditional culture."

This year's expo has invited more than 1,000 domestic and foreign guests to participate and will organize 17 activities across seven categories, such as meetings and talks, cultural exhibitions, art performances and investment promotions. The 2025 Dunhuang Forum will take place concurrently, comprising six types of forums and 12 thematic activities.

The exhibition at this year's expo will cover a total area of about 24,000 square meters, showcasing the latest achievements in world cultural heritage preservation and Dunhuang studies. It will also feature arts, intangible cultural heritage innovations and local customs from countries involved in the BRI, while highlighting the results of Gansu's efforts in intangible cultural heritage protection and new cultural and creative products.