China is urging the world to come together and promote dialogue among different civilizations. On Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of fostering equity, facilitating exchanges, and promoting progress among nations.
Speaking via video message at an event marking the first International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, Wang Yi highlighted the need for mutual respect and understanding in today’s rapidly changing world.
“The establishment of the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations by the UN responds to the shared aspirations of people worldwide,” Wang said. He noted that this initiative reflects the global desire to advance dialogue and promote human progress amid unprecedented challenges.
Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, shared that President Xi Jinping has introduced the Global Civilization Initiative. This initiative encourages the promotion of common human values, prioritizes the inheritance and innovation of civilizations, and strengthens international people-to-people exchanges and cooperation.
China proposed a three-pronged approach to enhance dialogue among civilizations:
Safeguarding equity among civilizations. Wang called for respecting every nation’s right to independently choose its development path and social system. He emphasized rejecting notions like the “clash of civilizations” and opposing interference in internal affairs, unilateralism, and bullying.
Facilitating exchanges among civilizations. Wang urged the global community to draw wisdom from diverse cultures to address global challenges and expand pathways to modernization. He also announced that China is considering hosting the 2028 United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) Global Forum.
Promoting the progress of civilizations. Wang encouraged the free flow of ideas, technologies, and people across borders. He highlighted the importance of leveraging emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to enrich and innovate shared material and spiritual wealth.
In 2024, the 78th session of the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution proposed by China and 82 other countries, designating June 10 as the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. This day symbolizes a global commitment to fostering understanding and cooperation among different cultures and societies.
