Kathmandu— Chinese President Xi Jinping’s commitment to fostering understanding between different cultures is evident through a decade of engagements prioritizing dialogue and learning, from exploring the ancient Maya ruins of Chichen Itza in Mexico to addressing UNESCO in Paris. These interactions underscore his belief that civilizations can enrich one another through mutual respect and open exchange, rather than imposing singular viewpoints or values. Xi has consistently advocated for inclusivity and humility as cornerstones of international relations, emphasizing the importance of learning from diverse traditions and histories.
A Visit to Ancient Mexico
In June 2013, while visiting Mexico, Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan toured the ancient Maya archaeological site of Chichen Itza alongside then-President Enrique Pena Nieto and his wife. During their exploration of landmarks like the Pyramid of Kukulkan, Xi engaged with explanations of Maya history and culture, inquiring about the symbolism within the ruins and noting parallels between Maya imagery – particularly depictions of dragons – and Chinese traditions. This visit exemplified his broader vision for intercultural exchange.
Promoting Mutual Learning on a Global Stage
Xi Jinping has consistently called for civilizations to learn from one another, advocating for tolerance and coexistence as pathways to shared development. During a 2014 speech at UNESCO in Paris, he quoted French writer Victor Hugo, stating, “There is a prospect greater than the sea, and it is the sky; there is a prospect greater than the sky, and it is the human soul.” He further elaborated that approaching different civilizations requires ‘a mind broader than the sky.’ Xi highlighted China’s historical contributions to global progress – including inventions like papermaking, gunpowder, printing, and the compass – emphasizing that cultural exchange is not a one-way street but a reciprocal process.
Cultural Immersion Through Diplomacy
Xi’s diplomatic travels have been marked by genuine engagement with local cultures. In Trinidad and Tobago, he participated in music sessions playing the steelpan alongside local musicians. During a visit to Fiji, he donned a traditional Bula shirt while listening to indigenous songs. And in Uzbekistan, he explored the ancient Silk Road city of Bukhara, demonstrating respect for its rich history. Anvar Kurbanov, a master craftsman from Bukhara, recalled Xi’s attentive interest in local handicrafts during his 2016 visit, noting that it led to an increase in Chinese tourism to the city.
Initiatives Fostering Intercultural Dialogue
China has actively promoted intercultural understanding through various initiatives in recent years. These include cultural and tourism exchange programs, joint archaeological research projects with countries like Russia and Egypt, and translations of classic literary works. Furthermore, China hosted both the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations and the Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning among Civilizations, culminating in the proposal of the Global Civilization Initiative to encourage greater global cooperation and understanding.
Emphasis on Humility and Inclusiveness
Xi Jinping has repeatedly stressed the importance of humility and inclusivity when engaging with other cultures. Speaking at the Indian Council of World Affairs in New Delhi in 2014, he stated that China aspires to be a ‘great learning nation,’ emphasizing the need to avoid complacency and embrace continuous study and improvement. He believes this spirit of humility has been crucial to the Chinese nation’s progress over millennia.
China continues to advocate for its Global Civilization Initiative, seeking to foster greater understanding and cooperation between cultures worldwide through dialogue and mutual respect.
(With inputs from Xinhua)
Originally published on abcnews.com.np.
