The Chinese charge d’affaires at ANSA for the Day of Dialogue between Civilizations
“China and Italy can continue to enhance their tradition of dialogue and contribute together to a more constructive relationship between China and Europe and to a broader dialogue between the cultures of the world”: this was stated by the interim charge d’affaires of the Chinese embassy in Rome, Li Xiaoyong, on the occasion of the recent International Day for Dialogue between Civilizations.
“China – underlines Li Xiaoyong to ANSA – believes that no civilization is superior to another and the differences between civilizations should not become a cause of conflict, but a force capable of promoting the progress of human society. In this path, China and Italy have a particular role.
Both countries have a long history and rich cultural heritage.”
The charge d’affaires then highlights how “in recent years, cultural exchanges between China and Italy have shown strong vitality”, recalling “the exhibitions dedicated to Pompeii, Palladio and the Renaissance masterpieces of the Uffizi which were presented to the Chinese public. At the same time, an exhibition dedicated to the cultural creations of the Forbidden City, or the Chinese imperial palace, was presented in Rome. These initiatives attracted over a million visitors, helping to strengthen mutual knowledge”.
For Li XiaoYong “the audiovisual sector also offers new possibilities for knowledge”, while “another important element is mobility between the two countries. China has introduced visa exemption for stays of up to 30 days for Italian citizens holding ordinary passports. Furthermore – he recalls – direct flights between China and Italy have been further increased. These measures make travel, academic exchanges, economic cooperation and contacts between citizens easier”. Finally, “another significant area is the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural goods. China and Italy have collaborated in the recovery and restitution of cultural artefacts, offering a concrete example of international cooperation in the protection of heritage”. In 2024, recalls the charge d’affaires, during the visit to China of the Italian head of state, “President Xi Jinping and President Mattarella together admired Chinese cultural assets recovered in Italy and returned to China”.
“Looking at the past – concludes Li XiaoYong – the global strategic partnership between China and Italy rests on solid historical and cultural foundations. Looking to the future, the International Day of Dialogue between Civilizations can become a new starting point to further deepen cultural exchanges, cooperation between institutions and contacts between citizens”.
